Career breaks

Temporary breaks from work for compassionate reasons may be negotiated on a case by case basis. Normal leave provisions and/or leave without pay provisions may be utilised.

Leave without pay

Leave without pay may be granted to staff upon request if the leave has the support of the Head, Dean or Director. Factors which are considered in determining whether or not to support an application include proposed length of absence, purpose of proposed leave, length of employment and performance of the applicant.

Working from home

This is a short term arrangement where staff, because of the nature of their work, may be able to work from home, for agreed periods of time, using appropriate technology to communicate with their unit and the University.

To qualify for such an arrangement, staff must have appropriate facilities available for communication with the University including telephone and computer facilities for connection to the campus network, library facilities and e-mail services.  It is important for managers to consult closely with employees and the relevant professional units when planning the introduction of work from home arrangements, particularly with respect to Occupational Health & Safely requirements.

The University, as an employer, must ensure the health, safety and welfare of employees, including those employees working from home. It is the manager’s responsibility to ensure safe systems of work and a safe working environment is provided, if employees are working from home. The University’s OH&S Unit can provide advice regarding safe working from home arrangements.

Last reviewed: 7 March, 2008