Fair Work Legislation Amendment (Strengthening Protections Against Discrimination) 2023

# Fair Work Legislation Amendment (Strengthening Protections Against Discrimination) 2023 ## What it does This bill adds "family and domestic violence" as a protected attribute under Australian workplace discrimination laws. That means employers can't legally discriminate against, harass, or dismiss someone because they're experiencing domestic violence. It also formally recognises breastfeeding, gender identity, and intersex status as protected grounds in the same way. ## Why it matters Workers experiencing family or domestic violence often face employment barriers—they might need time off for court appearances, medical care, or safety planning. This change gives them legal recourse if their employer penalises them for it. It's particularly important for women, who make up the majority of domestic violence survivors. ## Key details - The changes apply across multiple sections of the Fair Work Act, covering unfair dismissal claims, general protections against adverse action, and discrimination provisions - It comes into effect the day after receiving Royal Assent (no waiting period) - The bill relies on Australia's international obligations under ILO conventions, which is a legal basis for the Commonwealth to regulate employment law in this area