26 November 2015

Circular Head Council and the Australian Services Union have led the way on Family Violence measures.

The ASU joined with the Circular Head Council and staff at a special celebration in Smithton yesterday to mark the adoption of new arrangements to be adopted by Council in the event of staff being impacted by family or domestic violence.

The event, which coincided with events along the coast marking White Ribbon Day, demonstrated a unity of purpose between a trade union and employer in tackling the often hidden effects of family violence in our community.

General Manager Tony Smart said the new arrangements covered the incidence of family violence and provide protections and even additional leave in circumstances where family violence victims need that kind of support.

“Council worked closely with representatives of the organisation and the ASU during recent Enterprise Agreement negotiations to add this provision, which recognises the importance of providing leave to employees impacted by family or domestic violence,” Mr Smart said.

“As a result of this work Council now allocates up to 10 days per year of paid family or domestic violence leave to employees in addition to existing leave arrangements.”

Dennis Mullins, the Branch Coordinator of the ASU in Tasmania congratulated Council on the change.

“Council deserve recognition for being the first of the North-West Councils to step up to the plate and implement a complete strategy to protect their staff in this way,” Mr Mullins said.

“Circular Head was quick to respond to recent reports that showed North-West Tasmania as one of 12 hotspots for family violence identified across the nation and included a robust provision within their enterprise agreement.”

Long-term employees were also recognised at yesterday’s event for their service to the organisation.

Circular Head Mayor Daryl Quilliam thanked all staff for their contributions to Council over the past year and paid special tribute to Mr Smart’s 40 years with Council.

“Tony has made a significant contribution to Council during this time having come from helping set up Council’s first works depot to now being General Manager,” Mayor Quilliam said.

“Along with others recognised today, and all staff in general, I wish to thank them all for their hard work and dedication to the community.”