The draft Employment Relations (Amendment) Bill 2025 is set to potentially benefit working mothers by introducing paid breastfeeding breaks. Under this proposed legislation, mothers returning to work after maternity leave could be entitled to a 30-minute paid break each day for breastfeeding or expressing milk for up to three months, reflecting a move to better support their needs in the workplace.

In conjunction with these new breastfeeding provisions, the bill also includes suggestions for enhancing maternity leave, specifically for mothers who require extensions due to health issues related to pregnancy or childbirth. It allows for additional unpaid leave of up to three months after maternity leave, should a medical practitioner certify that the mother remains unfit for work due to complications stemming from her pregnancy.

This proposal aligns with other ongoing discussions in Fiji about women’s labor rights, such as the establishment of menstrual leave as a distinct category separate from sick leave, as emphasized by Felix Anthony, General Secretary of the National Union of Workers. During public consultations, stakeholders have expressed the need for improved maternity protections, ensuring that women returning from maternity leave are not disadvantaged in their job status or pay.

The engagement of various organizations and the Ministry of Employment indicates a collective recognition of the necessity to address the unique challenges faced by women in the workplace. As the discussions progress, there is a hopeful outlook that these legislative changes will pave the way for a healthier work environment, recognizing that supporting working mothers is not just a personal benefit but a significant societal investment.

In summary, the proposed reforms mark a positive progression toward enhancing family well-being and work-life balance for women in Fiji, with the potential to foster a more equitable workplace in the future.