Australia—Dentons is the first law firm in Australia to offer its employees an additional five days of “bonus” leave each year.

The new benefit is designed to encourage employees to take the time to recharge by using their annual leave to ensure they receive the benefit of bonus leave.

Dentons’ Chief Operating Officer, Maureen Migliazzo, said, “It is vital we take the time to relax, recharge and re-evaluate. Our bonus leave is intended to reward our people with additional time to prioritise their mental, physical and emotional wellbeing.”

Employees who have ten or fewer days of annual leave balance and over 12 months of service at 30 April, will receive five bonus leave days on 1 July, to be used that financial year.

In addition, Dentons has increased its paid parental leave arrangement for all Direct Carers. The offering is part of Dentons’ new Family Leave Policy, which drops talk of gendered terms or traditional parenting roles (with key language around kinship groups particularly useful for the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander and those of diverse gender and sexuality) and provides equal access to 20 weeks of paid leave for any Direct Carer of a new child.

“Welcoming a new child into your home is a big commitment. Our new Family Leave Policy is designed to support direct carers and allow them more time to spend with their families during what is a very special time,” concluded Maureen.

Australia Chair and Australasia Region CEO, Doug Stipanicev said, “Looking after our employees is key to Dentons’ strategy. Our people are fundamental to our success, and we are always looking for ways to acknowledge their efforts and dedication.”

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