Recent data compiled by the Australian Human Rights
Commission reveals that the situation for working mothers, particularly new
mothers returning to work, isn’t the pretty picture painted by card shops and
florists on Mother’s Day.
Commenting on the Headline
Prevalence Data - Supporting Working
Parents: Pregnancy and Return to Work National Review Northern Territory
Anti-Discrimination Commissioner, Sally Sievers said that one in two women in
Australia reported experiencing discrimination in the workplace during their
pregnancy, parental leave or on return to work.
“The most common types of discrimination women reported
experiencing on returning to work after parental leave included negative
comments about breast feeding, working part-time and being denied requests to
work flexibly.
“In my experience, working mothers are a great value in the
work place, they are generally focussed, and task orientated and come to work
to work. Unfortunately some working mothers feel that they need to prove their worth,
so they don’t just do things competently, but do them extremely well.
“Employers and families need to understand women’s
entitlements in this area. Women are legally
entitled to twelve months unpaid parental leave if they have worked for an employer
for twelve months or more continuous employment. They are also entitled to a
return to work guarantee,” Ms Sievers said.
“Under Northern Territory Anti-Discrimination Law even
if employees do not meet these criteria, they should not to be treated less
favourably in the work place because of pregnancy, breast feeding or
parenthood. Employers have to seriously consider requests for flexible work
arrangements to accommodate the needs of their employee’s parenting
obligations.”
The Northern Territory Anti-Discrimination Commission, the
NT Working Women’s Centre and the Fair Work Ombudsman all provide resources for
employers and women to better understand their rights and obligations in
relation to this matter.
“As we celebrate motherhood this weekend, I remind employers
to consider the rights of our working mums and their right to work without
discrimination.”
For information on the Australian Human Rights Commission
Prevalence Data visit: http://www.humanrights.gov.au/supporting-working-parents-pregnancy-and-return-work-national-review-0
Media enquiries: Jeannette Button on 8941 9169 or 0407 727
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