New research commissioned by Australian unions and a superannuation fund reveals that providing 12 days of reproductive leave to all Australian workers would cost approximately 30 times less than the current economic burden of not having it. The report estimates that Australia's lack of such an entitlement costs the economy up to $26.55 billion annually due to absenteeism, reduced productivity, and medical expenses. Conversely, implementing universal reproductive leave would cost an estimated $920 million per year.
Offering 12 days of reproductive leave to all Australian workers would cost approximately 30 times less than the cost of not having it, according to new research. An interim report by the Bankwest Curtin Economics Centre estimated the country's lack of such an entitlement costs the economy up to $26.55 billion annually, due to absenteeism, loss of productivity while at work and other medical expenses.
Presenteeism, the act of working while unwell or in pain, significantly contributes to the estimated $26.6 billion estimated annual productivity loss. Unlike absenteeism, where individuals take time off, presenteeism often results in reduced efficiency and prolonged suffering, as employees push through severe symptoms. "The $26 billion annual cost isn't just an abstract number — it reflects real lives disrupted and real productivity lost," Marshall said.
Economics Labor REPRODUCTIVE LEAVE AUSTRALIA ECONOMY COST PRODUCTIVITY
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