Employment Relations Act 2000, Part 6AB
If you’re a victim of family violence you have a special right to ask for short-term flexibility in your work arrangements. Your employer has to follow a set process in responding to your request.
Compared with other employees, you also have stronger rights to make sure your employer makes a fair decision. If your employer refuses your request saying they can’t accommodate the short-term changes you want, and you think their refusal is unreasonable, you can take legal action against them.
If you’re in this situation, contact a government labour inspector and, if necessary, the Employment Relations Authority to enforce your rights.
Note: If you’re treated unfairly by your boss because you’re a victim of family violence, you may be able to take legal action against them in the form of a “personal grievance”: see the chapter “Resolving employment problems”.