Taking time off work

Compassionate Leave After Miscarriage: What You’re Entitled To

Under Australia’s National Employment Standards, all employees—including casuals—are entitled to compassionate leave following a miscarriage. This leave is also referred to as bereavement leave, and it acknowledges the profound emotional and physical impact of pregnancy loss.

 What the law provides:

• Two days of compassionate leave are available to both women and their partners.

• For permanent employees, this leave is paid.

• For casual employees, the leave is unpaid, though some awards, enterprise agreements, or registered agreements may offer additional entitlements.

 What research shows: While the legal entitlement is two days, studies indicate that women typically take 7 to 10 days off work to begin healing. Any additional time away, beyond the compassionate leave, usually comes from sick leave or annual leave balances.

Returning to work:

Many women report that returning to work can feel abrupt or unsupported. In one Australian study, 7 in 10 women said they received no formal assistance from HR or their employer to ease their transition back. If this is your experience, please know you’re not alone—and it’s okay to advocate for what you need.

How can Daisy support you in returning to work?

Every woman’s experience is different. You might feel ready to return to work—or you might need more time, space, or support. If you’re navigating this transition, you don’t have to do it alone.

Whether it’s flexible hours, a quiet space, or simply being met with understanding—we’re here to listen and to help you advocate for what you need, whether that’s a conversation with your employer, a written request, or just finding the words to express what feels right for you.