Queensland businesses at risk of emotional, social and financial impacts of domestic and family violence in the workplace: CCIQ report
Two thirds of Queensland business could be vulnerable to the emotional, social and financial impacts of domestic and family violence in the workplace though poor understanding of the law and their obligations to employees.
Key facts
- The latest report in the Chamber of Commerce and Industry Queensland’s (CCIQ) Small Business Social Impact Series 2021, Domestic and Family Violence as a Workplace Issue, found domestic and family violence cost the Queensland economy close to $3.4b during the 2019-20 financial year.
- Two thirds of Queensland businesses did not have policies or guidelines addressing domestic and family violence.
- A free masterclass with Brisbane Business Hub will help address domestic and family violence in the workplace and guide businesses and on their obligations as employers.
The latest report in the Chamber of Commerce and Industry Queensland’s (CCIQ) Small Business Social Impact Series Domestic and Family Violence as a Workplace Issue, found domestic and family violence cost businesses on average more than $6,000 annually through increased risk of workplace violence, increased illness and absenteeism, possible legal liabilities, increased employee turnover and reduced productivity.
CCIQ Policy Advisor Lusia Baucia said the report, released on September 13, showed domestic and family violence impacts were worse for smaller businesses, female dominated industries and businesses located in rural or remote areas.
“Businesses are vulnerable if they do not understand the laws they need to comply with and need to have policies and strategies for how they will deal with employees experiencing domestic and family violence when these issues arise,” Ms Baucia said.
“Domestic and family violence issues can spill over into people’s social and working lives and create workplace health and safety risks. Workers at all levels, from CEOs to administration assistants are experiencing domestic and family violence and may need business led support or referral to find safety.”
“Often workplaces are safe havens and the only place someone experiencing domestic and family violence is able to find reprieve.”
Domestic and family violence cost the Queensland economy close to $3.4b during the 2019-20 financial year.
Ms Baucia said retail, accommodation and hospitality sectors reported higher numbers of employees experiencing domestic and family violence while a high number of construction and manufacturing industries reported having a very poor understanding of employer obligations and employee rights regarding domestic and family violence.
“CCIQ’s research via survey and consultation workshops found businesses were unsure of their legal obligations and two thirds did not have policies or guidelines addressing domestic and family violence," Ms Baucia said.
The Domestic and Family Violence as a Workplace Issue report aims to understand what domestic and family violence means for employers and how it can be addressed in the workplace.
For more information, register to join the Domestic and family violence: How it impacts the workplace free masterclass as Brisbane Business Hub on September 13.
If you or someone you know needs help contact Beyond Blue on 1300 224 636.
CCIQ media contact
Emma Clarke
Media and communications Advisor
[email protected] | 0403 944 902