International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women: NZ women and families can’t wait

In New Zealand one in three women experience domestic violence at some point during their lives. 2014 research by the Public Service Association found the cost of family violence to employers is about $368 million annually. The social, human and personal costs are incalculable.

“Working people and their unions have a vital role to ensure the prevention of gender based violence,” says CTU Vice President Rachel Mackintosh.

“We must work together to change our society. All women should be able to live their lives free from violence. Employers can also do more to support working women,”

“Last week the International Labour Organisation (ILO) voted to develop a gender-based violence framework. This is a breakthrough and shows that governments, unions, and employers have committed to work together at an international level to do more to make women safe,”

“To stop domestic violence better protection for women including paid leave for counselling, leave to attend Police and Court appointments, sometimes changes in accommodation, or working location are all needed. Union members are negotiating these protections into collective agreements,”

“Evidence shows that, with good support, workplaces can enable working women who are survivors of violence to keep their jobs and be safe at work. Remaining in the workplace provides essential income and a network of support,” said Mackintosh

ENDS

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