The group will form a human chain at Jellybean Park, Nowra on Thursday to call on the Federal Government to implement ten days of domestic and family violence leave for all workers.

Secretary of Unions Shoalhaven, Patricia David, said the ten days of paid leave is supported by state and territory governments, but has not yet garnered the support of the Federal Government.

Ms David said it is imperative this leave is supported and embedded into National Employment Standards (NES) so employees, regardless of whether they are full time or casual, can organise safe arrangements while maintaining a level of financial support.

"For people who are casuals or part-time, or working industries that haven't got (domestic and family violence paid leave), all they're entitled to is five days of unpaid leave," said Ms David.

"Ten days of paid leave for people who are working and need to get out of a situation, especially if they're just casual workers picking up small hours, could have a huge impact, because it gives them the opportunity to leave without a financial stress."

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Ms David said introducing the leave would benefit Shoalhaven residents, given the area has some of the highest reports of domestic violence related incidents in NSW.

There were 469 incidents of domestic violence related offences reported to police in the Shoalhaven from July 2020 to June 2021.

"It's a sad indictment on our area," said Ms David.

"Our area is also hugely impacted financially, we're a lower socioeconomic area, there's a huge stress on housing.

"It could make a big impact for locals."

The rally is coinciding with the 16 days of activism against gender-based violence, which is an annual international campaign that began on November 25, the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women.

Ms David said those who cannot make it to Jellybean Park on Thursday can support the campaign by buying a hand for $2.00 online here: https://chuffed.org/project/we-wont-wait-solidarity-chain

All proceeds will go to local organisations, split between the Illawarra Women's Health Centre and the Shoalhaven Homeless Hub.

For more details on the event, visit: https://www.facebook.com/events/1375179929563918/

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