The Fijian Parliament is poised to reinstate a three-day family care leave contingent on the approval of amendments to the Employment Relations Act 2007. Currently, the Fiji Ministry of Employment, Productivity and Workplace Relations has initiated public consultations across the country to discuss this significant legislative proposal.

Historically, the law allowed for five days of family care leave; however, this provision was drastically curtailed to just one day starting August 1, 2021, during the COVID-19 pandemic. The proposed amendment aims to restore some of this entitlement, now allowing employees to take three days off to care for immediate family members who are incapacitated due to illness, injury, or other medical conditions. A notable change in this bill is the removal of the term “household,” meaning that the leave will apply strictly to immediate family members.

This legislative reform is part of broader social welfare initiatives in Fiji, including the upcoming Childcare and Protection Bill 2024. This bill seeks to address the rising number of children entering residential care homes due to neglect or abuse, emphasizing the importance of family-based care and intervention.

Minister for Women, Children, and Social Protection, Ms. Tabuya, has acknowledged the significance of these initiatives in bolstering family welfare and reinforcing community support systems. The return of the three-day family care leave is seen as a positive step towards enhancing support for families during critical times, allowing employees to care for their loved ones without the stress of financial uncertainty.

Overall, the proposed amendments not only aim to improve employee rights but also reflect the government’s commitment to nurturing family bonds and community welfare in Fiji. As discussions evolve, there is hope that these changes will pave the way for a more supportive environment for families and vulnerable individuals in society.