Founded in the Queensland outback in 1920, Qantas has grown to be Australia's largest domestic and international airline. Qantas is widely regarded as the world's leading long-distance airline. 

 

The Opportunity

Transitioning Well partnered with HR Legal to deliver a comprehensive training initiative aimed at equipping attendees with the knowledge and skills to identify, respond to, and support those affected by Family and Domestic Violence (FDV). 

The attendees were a select group of leaders and specialist roles within human resources and workplace health & safety, who play integral roles in supporting staff within the Qantas workforce.

This case study underscores Qantas' dedication to fostering a workplace culture that recognises employees' professional contributions and prioritises their safety and wellbeing. Furthermore, it exemplifies Qantas' corporate social responsibility by actively contributing to the broader societal shift towards eradicating FDV.

The program emphasises the importance of providing a safe environment for employees to speak up regarding FDV concerns, where leaders are encouraged to respond with empathy, compassionate communication skills, and provide relevant resources.

 

Transitioning Well's Family and Domestic Violence Workplace Response training stood out for its effective blend of legal, technical, and clinical knowledge tailored for our workplace. The trainers offered a safe and empowering learning environment, and equipped us with the necessary skills to navigate these sensitive situations with confidence and compassion. I highly recommend their training to any organisation committed to creating a supportive and inclusive workplace culture.

Cigdem Fredes, Senior Wellbeing Adviser, Employee Wellbeing & Mental Health, Qantas Group. 

What Did the Program Cover?

In this training program, Transitioning Well, in partnership with HR Legal, provided attendees with an understanding of FDV within the workplace context, as well as the skills required to respond to individuals who they may be concerned about and/or who share they are experiencing FDV. 

Timing: October-November 2023 

Duration: 3.5 hours
Audience: Nominated leaders and specialist roles (e.g. HR, WHS)
Delivery Modes: Face-to-face

Overall, there were 110 Qantas team members who attended seven sessions delivered across Sydney and Melbourne. 

 

Research indicates that 20 percent of the Australian population report having experienced physical and/or sexual FDV at some stage in their life. As the workplace is an integral part of an individual's daily life, there's a unique intersection between those experiencing FDV at home and the support the workplace can offer. As we know, it can be difficult for an individual to speak up and therefore, it is pivotal that leaders and employees understand their role in providing a safe place to speak in initiating support within the workplace context. 

Our comprehensive training program provided attendees with practical skills and strategies to respond appropriately, effectively, and safely to individuals who may disclose they are a victim or perpetrator of FDV. A tailored resource sheet was also provided to attendees following the session. 

I feel confident I now have the tools to handle FDV situations for my staff.

FDV Training Attendee

Learning Modules   

  • Defining FDV including types and prevalence across the employee life cycle. 

  • Identifying the impact of FDV on both individuals and the workplace.

  • Legal obligations for employees experiencing FDV and the associated health and safety considerations.

  • Understanding the role of victim vs. perpetrator in the workplace, and the intersection with privacy and confidentiality and reporting considerations

  • The role of the workplace through policy and procedure in response to FDV, considering discrimination risk and support mechanisms such as flexibility.

  • Roles and responsibilities in the context of FDV and the importance of self-care in managing the complexities of this area.

  • How to approach a FDV conversation with empathy, make compassionate referrals and manage sensitivities.

  • Case studies exploring practical strategies and processes to best manage specific scenarios in relation to FDV.

Attendee Feedback 

Statement

% of Participants who Agreed

The facilitator presented the content in a clear, engaging manner

96%

I intend to apply something that was covered in this workshop

97%

I am aware of strategies and tools I can try out

97%

The session met my expectations

97%

The information and resources provided were useful for me

97%

The session had an appropriate balance of content and participant interaction

98%

The session was practical and the ideas easy to apply

95%

The presenters were amazing. Very knowledgeable and able to answer all questions with great detail.

FDV Training Attendee

How can we help you? 

Our national team of psychologists bring evidence-based approaches, tailored tactics, and extensive research to the table which allows us to support your people at the intersection where work meets life.

To find out more about our FDV Response Training program, reach out to the team at learning@transitioningwell.com.au for further information or download our factsheet for more information.