Rio Tinto increases support for workers affected by family and domestic violence

Rio Tinto today introduced a package of initiatives designed to protect and support Australian employees affected by family and domestic violence.

Rio Tinto managing director Australia Joanne Farrell said "Safety is our number one priority at Rio Tinto and one of our core values and we recognise keeping each other safe extends beyond the workplace and in to the home.

"Sadly, family and domestic violence is a widespread issue in society and one that Australian businesses across the country need to take steps to address.

"As part of our commitment to zero harm, Rio Tinto is taking a stand against family and domestic violence by offering a broader package of additional support for employees across Australia.

"As a major Australian employer, we recognise our broader community responsibility to help address this issue, which is too often ignored."

Under the package of measures, Rio Tinto will make up to 10 days additional leave available to directly affected employees for legal assistance, court appearances, relocation and counselling.

Support also extends to providing appropriate safety plans to protect at-risk employees at work including security, new telephone numbers, screening or blocking calls and email protection.

Short-term financial assistance and emergency accommodation can also be provided as required to employees who need immediate help as well as a range of other specialised support services.

Rio Tinto will continue to train leaders and human resources teams to equip them with the skills to recognise and respond to issues of family and domestic violence in the workplace.

Rio Tinto is working towards becoming an accredited White Ribbon workplace.

Notes to editor

The White Ribbon Workplace Accreditation Program recognises workplaces that are taking active steps to stop violence against women, accrediting them as a White Ribbon Workplace.