Why paid domestic and family violence leave is a life saver

All change that improves the lives of working people is hard won, and more often than not, it is Unions and workers who are at the forefront of the fight for change.

That was the case again last week in federal parliament, when the Albanese Labor government introduced its landmark Paid Domestic and Family Violence Leave legislation.

For over a decade, Unions and advocates have been campaigning for this legislation which would see women and men who need to escape violent and abusive personal circumstances able to access paid leave in order to take action to protect themselves and their families.

People will no longer be forced to make the dreadful choice between seeking shelter, visiting a doctor or going to the police and losing hours at work and the income that they need. In these crucial days and moments when they need help, they can seek it without being penalised.

It is a change that will save lives.

On today's podcast, Francis speaks with two people who have worked tirelessly on behalf of their members for this watershed legislation, the first of its kind anywhere in the world.

Julia Angrisano is the National Secretary of the Financial Services Union (FSU).  Lisa Darmanin is the branch Secretary for Victoria and Tasmania for the Australian Services Union (ASU). They're our guests this week.

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Sally Rugg - @sallyrugg

Francis Leach, ACTU - @SaintFrankly

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