Domestic and family violence

Queensland Health is committed to providing safe, supportive and respectful workplaces. Domestic and family violence can affect employees regardless of their role, background, gender or personal circumstances and may have significant impacts on their wellbeing, safety and ability to work.

As a leader, you play an important role in recognising when an employee may need support, responding appropriately to concerns, and helping employees access available workplace and community support services.

Select each tab to learn how to support your employees.

  • Domestic and Family Violence is
  • Considerations
  • Take aciton

Domestic and family violence

Is behaviour that is used to control, coerce, threaten, intimidate or harm another person within a family, domestic or intimate relationship.

Domestic and family violence can take many forms, including:

  • Physical abuse

  • Emotional or psychological abuse

  • Verbal abuse and intimidation

  • Financial abuse

  • Coercive or controlling behaviour

  • Technology-facilitated abuse or stalking

  • Sexual abuse.

 

Key considerations

  • The impacts of domestic and family violence can extend into the workplace and may affect an employee's wellbeing, attendance, performance, concentration or sense of safety.

  • Domestic and family violence can affect people of all genders, ages, cultures and backgrounds.

  • The signs of domestic and family violence may not always be obvious.

  • Employees may choose not to disclose their circumstances and should never be pressured to do so.

  • A leader's role is to support, listen and connect employees with appropriate assistance, not to investigate or provide counselling.

  • Safety considerations may extend to the workplace and should be managed in line with organisational processes.

  • A supportive and non-judgemental response can make a significant difference to an employee experiencing domestic and family violence.

As a leader

  • Create a supportive and respectful environment where employees feel safe seeking help.

  • Respond sensitively and appropriately if an employee discloses domestic and family violence.

  • Maintain privacy and confidentiality in accordance with workplace policies and legal obligations.

  • Discuss workplace safety concerns and identify appropriate support options where required.

  • Support employees to access available leave, workplace adjustments and support services.

  • Seek advice from Human Resources or other appropriate support services when required.

Why it's important

  • Domestic and family violence can have significant impacts on employee wellbeing, safety and work performance.

  • Supportive workplace responses can help employees feel safer and more connected to assistance.

  • Early support may help reduce the impact of domestic and family violence on employees and the workplace.

  • Employees experiencing domestic and family violence may require workplace flexibility or safety considerations.

  • Creating a supportive workplace contributes to psychological safety and employee wellbeing.

  • Leaders play an important role in fostering a culture of care, respect and support.

Training