In New Zealand, the Domestic Violence—Victims’ Protection Act 2018 is one of the strongest tools you have to reclaim your future without losing your livelihood. It recognizes that escaping violence is a full-time job and that you shouldn’t have to choose between your safety and your paycheck.
Here is exactly what you need to know about your rights at work.
1. The “10 Days Paid Leave” Rule
If you have worked for your employer for at least six months, you are entitled to 10 days of paid domestic violence leave each year.
- It is Separate: This is in addition to your normal sick leave and annual leave.
- The Purpose: You can use these days for anything related to the violence—attending Family Court, moving house, meeting with a lawyer, or even just taking a “mental health day” because the anxiety or depression is too heavy to work.
- No Expiry: While the 10 days don’t “roll over” to the next year, you get a fresh 10 days every 12 months.
2. Flexible Working Requests
You have the legal right to ask for a short-term change to your working arrangements (up to 2 months) to keep yourself safe.
- Change of Location: If the abuser knows where you work, you can ask to work from a different branch or from home.
- Change of Hours: You can ask to start earlier or finish later to avoid “predictable” commute times where the abuser might follow you.
- Safety Duties: You can ask for your work phone number or email to be changed, or for a receptionist to “screen” your calls.
3. Protection from Discrimination
In Aotearoa, it is illegal for an employer to treat you unfairly or fire you because you are a victim of family violence.
- Your employer cannot deny you a promotion or “phase you out” because they think your situation is “too much drama.”
- You are protected by the Human Rights Act; your status as a survivor is a protected part of your identity.
4. How to Ask (The “Script”)
You do not have to give every painful detail to your boss. You can keep it professional and “matter-of-fact.”
“I am writing to formally request Domestic Violence Leave under the Victims’ Protection Act. I need to take [Number] days to attend to safety and legal matters. I would like this to remain confidential between us and HR.”
- Proof: Your employer can ask for proof. In NZ, this can be a Protection Order, a letter from a support worker (like Women’s Refuge or Shine), or a Police report. They are legally required to keep this information strictly confidential.
5. What if I’m Self-Employed or Unemployed?
If you aren’t in a traditional job, there are other “Economic Safety” nets:
- WINZ “Transition to Safety” Grant: If you are leaving a violent relationship, you may be eligible for a one-off payment (usually around $1,500) to help with the costs of moving, even if you aren’t currently on a benefit.
- Domestic Violence Benefit: If you cannot work due to the trauma, you can apply for a specific benefit while you recover.
Privacy Tip: When you take this leave, it should appear on your payslip as “Domestic Violence Leave” or simply “Special Leave.” If you are worried about a shared bank account, check with your HR department about how the payment will be labeled.
Staying Safe and Sane 