This Compassionate Leave Policy can be used to show employees that the Company provides leave for employees who need to take time off to care for an immediate family member or a member of their household who faces a life-threatening illness or injury, or where such a member has passed away. This Policy is in line with legal obligations and helps clarify the process for employees who may, or have lost a member of their immediate family or household.

Use this Policy if:

• You want to provide clarity around who can take Compassionate leave, and when this can be taken;
• You want employees to know  whether Compassionate Leave will be paid or unpaid;
• You need to have clear notification requirements in place, along with the right to ask for evidence where appropriate; and
• You want your employees to know that there are leave entitlements available to support them if they might, or have lost a member of their immediate family or household.

What does this Policy cover?

• Eligibility for Compassionate Leave, including unpaid leave;
• A definition of immediate family or household members for the purpose of Compassionate Leave;
• Any entitlement to payment for this leave; and
• Notification and evidence requirements for employees wishing to take this leave.

Further information:

• How does compassionate leave work?
• What types of paid leave are full-time employees entitled to?
• Do casual employees have leave entitlements?
• Employee Handbook
• Does my business meet the Fair Work best practice checklist?
• Leave Policy