QLD Public Servants Can Now Access Reproductive Health Leave

What is Reproductive Health Leave (RHL)?

Reproductive Health Leave is a new workplace entitlement for Queensland public sector workers which will provide a nation leading 10 days of leave specifically designed for workers to care for their reproductive health.

When can RHL it be used?

The leave can be used for things like fertility and IVF treatment, chronic reproductive health conditions like endometriosis, PCOS or menopause related concerns, preventative screening for things like breast and prostate cancers, and other treatments associated with reproductive health like hysterectomies and vasectomies.

You can take leave if the reason is for:

• a reproductive health condition.

• a chronic condition.

• requires absence from the workplace.

• to attend preventative screening.

• associated with reproductive health.

• to travel to an appointment for reproductive health purposes.

What kinds of treatment types and therapies are eligible under RHL?

While not all conditions are clearly labelled within the new directive from the Queensland Government, it doesn’t mean those procedures aren’t available. For example, while a pap smear test isn’t named as one of the types of preventative screenings within the directive, it is still eligible as it is associated with reproductive health. Essentially, any procedure that may impact your reproductive health and wellbeing will be a legitimate reason to take up use of this new leave coverage.

Are non-birth parents eligible for RHL for fertility treatment?

Yes, RHL is available for employees to receive fertility treatment, regardless of their gender or birthing-intent. Often both parents are involved in the fertility treatment process. However, if the purpose of a particular appointment does not relate to the employee specifically, and they’re to attend for support purposes only, RHL cannot be used in this instance.

Are part-time employs eligible for RHL?

Yes, all QLD Government workers who are contracted part-time are eligible for RHL on a pro-rata basis. It’s best to check you contract and discuss this with your employer directly as to how many days you’re eligible for.

We commend the QLD Government for its decision to provide extra support to IVF patients.

This policy is a significant step that the Queensland Government is taking to reduce the stigma associated with seeking support to manage impacts of reproductive health issues on the QLD workforce. At Monash IVF, we hope that this will help patients undergoing IVF in QLD, allowing more people to achieve their dream of starting or building their families.

If you want to access IVF in QLD, Monash IVF are here to help. We have clinics across QLD in Brisbane, Gold Coast, Rockhampton, Townsville and Cairns. Our fertility specialists are highly qualified and experienced in providing IVF in QLD, and we offer several different  fertility treatment services to those in both metropolitan and regional areas. To book an appointment with one of our specialists, click   here. To find QLD fertility specialist close to you, click   here.