THE Centre for Multicultural Youth’s new EBA makes it one of the first Victorian NFPs to offer employees Family Violence Leave amongst a raft of other family-friendly work arrangements.
The EBA, which was voted-in unanimously by staff, includes up to 20 days per year of paid Family Violence Leave as well as 10 weeks Paid Parental Leave (or three weeks Paid Partner Leave), flexible working hours, the option of Purchased Leave (48/52) and ongoing support for women who wish to continue to breastfeed when they return to work.
By combining a work culture based on respect with clear communication and transparent negotiation processes, CMY was able to achieve pay and budget goals and establish positive and flexible work conditions for its staff.
CMY CEO, Carmel Guerra said the benefits in the EBA were a reflection of the value that CMY places on its employees.
“The skills that CMY staff members bring to our organisation are exceptional and without them we would not be able deliver quality services for multicultural young people,” she said.
“By providing a workplace that fits with staff needs as well as our own, we are helping to create a more engaged workforce and productive working environment.”
With over 70 staff from 21 different countries of origin, CMY recognised that its EBA must be tailored to its multicultural workforce.
“This new EBA includes Cultural and Ceremonial Leave which enables staff to accrue flexitime to attend cultural or religious events that are important to them,” Ms Guerra said.
“We also offer Exceptional Circumstances Leave for staff who have had an immediate family member pass away overseas, enabling them to access a longer period of Compassionate Leave.”
The 48% of the CMY workforce under 35 years of age also meant that CMY had a younger cohort to consider.
“We offer generous study leave to enable staff to pursue formal qualifications alongside practical work experience and access to salary packaging is available for all staff of contracts of three months or longer,” Ms Guerra said.
“Our staff members are an invaluable asset to our organisation.”
“We hope that while this new EBA proves beneficial for existing staff it will also attract fresh and talented new people to our organisation, helping continue our important work with young people across Victoria.”
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