Team members across the Wesfarmers Group, including those at Bunnings, Kmart, Target, Officeworks and the Industrials Division, are being advised that they will be supported with paid leave if they join the volunteer services fighting the bushfires affecting many communities in Australia this season.
Managing Director Rob Scott said Wesfarmers and its businesses had long provided support, including paid leave, to permanent team members volunteering to help provide services in times of emergency. However, it was important to clarify and update team members on their entitlements given the severity and likely duration of the fire season this year.
“Our teams have a long history of donating their time to support each other and to protect and assist local communities impacted by disastrous events,” Mr Scott said.
“Permanent team members who support their local communities as volunteer fire fighters with recognised organisations such as the CFA and RFS, or who are members of the SES, are able to access paid leave and other support. While the arrangements vary a little across our diverse businesses, in general up to four weeks paid leave can be accessed. Our businesses have been reminding team members this week to talk with their managers if they have any questions on how to arrange this support.”
“Our thoughts go out to all of our communities, team members, customers, suppliers and their families impacted by fires across the country. We join others in saying a huge thank you to everyone for their efforts to support these communities in need so far, and with the challenges ahead.”