Unions are calling for a dedicated entitlement to reproductive health leave for all working Australians, proposing the introduction of 10 days of paid leave. 

Reproductive health represents a widespread and serious concern. For example: 

• Fertility issues affect one in six Australian couples 

• Prostate cancer affects one in six men 

• Endometriosis affects one in seven women 

These are among only a few of the significant reproductive health challenges Australians face. Many of these conditions require ongoing medical appointments, screenings, or recovery time, meaning workers often rely on personal leave or go unpaid to manage their health. 

The Australian Council of Trade Unions (ACTU) recently presented a proposal to the federal parliamentary inquiry into the National Employment Standards (NES), urging the consideration of a standalone reproductive health leave entitlement, with ACTU Assistant Secretary Liam O’Brien stating that “[n]o Australian should have to choose between their health and their pay.” 

While the NES currently provides personal and carer’s leave, it does not cover reproductive health needs. Under the proposal, all workers – regardless of gender – would have access to 10 days of paid reproductive health leave for issues such as menstrual pain, menopause, prostate cancer screening, IVF and fertility treatment, miscarriage, and conditions like endometriosis. 

Modelling from the Bankwest Curtin Economics Centre (BCEC), based on a 12‑day entitlement, estimated the cost of providing paid reproductive health leave at $1.7 billion a year. This figure accounts for productivity gains, higher employee retention, and reduced early retirement. 

“Reproductive health affects all workers, regardless of their gender. Whether you’re going through IVF, attending a prostate cancer screening, or managing endometriosis, these are important health issues that should never cause financial stress,” O’Brien asserted. 

By contrast, BCEC estimated the absence of paid reproductive health leave costs the Australian economy more than $21.3 billion annually through work absences and reduced capacity.  

The Australian Institute of Superannuation Trustees also estimated that menopause alone costs women aged 50-54 more than $15 billion a year in lost earnings and superannuation. 

O’Brien is urging the Albanese Government to consider the proposal, noting that many Australians delay screenings, push through pain, or work while unwell because they cannot afford to run down their leave balance.  

“This only creates more serious health problems down the track and keeps people away from work for longer. The evidence is clear: giving people paid time off to manage their health improves long-term well-being and lifts productivity.” 

The Queensland Government already provides 10 days of reproductive health leave to its public sector workforce, highlighting the growing recognition of reproductive health as a core workplace issue.