Australia faces a significant challenge in managing the costs associated with absenteeism and presenteeism in the workplace, with reproductive health conditions contributing to over $21 billion in lost productivity each year.
A new proposal by the Health Services Union (HSU) advocates for 12 days of paid reproductive health leave to help address this issue, offering a practical solution that could greatly benefit both employees and employers.
In Australia, conditions related to reproductive health such as menstruation, endometriosis, miscarriage, and menopause affect millions of workers every year. This often leads to workers either pushing through pain, taking sick leave, or, in some cases, withdrawing from the workforce altogether.
According to the HSU, providing 12 days of paid reproductive leave annually would not only ease the financial burden on businesses but also promote employee well-being and retention.
The Economic Impact of Reproductive Health Issues
The annual loss of $21 billion due to reproductive health-related absenteeism is a stark reminder of the economic toll these conditions take on Australian businesses.
According to the Costs and Benefits of Implementing a Universal Reproductive Health Leave Entitlement report, the policy could cost $1.7 billion annually but would save businesses nearly $1.88 billion in productivity gains.
By addressing reproductive health needs through paid leave, workers would have the agency to manage their health without the fear of losing income or facing discrimination, especially as many workers struggle with invisible conditions like endometriosis.
HSU national senior assistant secretary, Kate Marshall, stated that “by rolling out a universal entitlement of 12 days a year, we will give all workers, particularly women, dignity and agency to be a part of a workforce that doesn’t currently reflect our needs.”
The policy would largely benefit women, who bear the brunt of reproductive health challenges, but it would also support men undergoing vasectomies.
The Stigma Surrounding Reproductive Health in the Workplace
Despite the widespread impact of reproductive health conditions, many Australian workers fear the stigma associated with taking leave for such issues. The HSU’s research highlights that a significant number of workers are reluctant to disclose their conditions to employers due to potential discrimination.
One in three individuals with endometriosis has been passed over for a promotion, and one in six has lost their job as a result of their health issues. These fears contribute to a culture of presenteeism, where employees continue working despite being unwell, often leading to long-term health consequences.
In 2024, the Queensland government took a step forward by introducing 10 days of paid reproductive leave for public sector workers. This initiative underscores the growing recognition of reproductive health as a legitimate concern in the workplace, and the HSU’s proposal aims to build on this momentum for a broader, nationwide change.
The push for paid reproductive health leave represents an important step in recognising and addressing the needs of workers dealing with reproductive health conditions. By investing in such policies, Australia can improve workplace productivity while fostering a more supportive and inclusive environment for all employees.
