MetLife Australia Pioneers Inclusive Leave Policies for Its Workforce
MetLife Australia Pioneers Inclusive Leave Policies for Its Workforce
2
The information on this website is general in nature and does not take into account your objectives, financial situation, or needs. Consider seeking personal advice from a licensed adviser before acting on any information.
MetLife Australia, gaining distinction as an Inclusive Employer from Diversity Council Australia, recently unveiled an innovative suite of leave options catering to its diverse employee base.
These groundbreaking policies include specialized leave types that acknowledge and accommodate different life stages and personal journeys of its workforce.
The insurance giant has set in motion three specialized leave offerings: up to 10 days of menopause leave, up to five days for fertility-related matters, and as much as four weeks for gender affirmation procedures. Furthermore, MetLife plans to augment its paid parental leave to 16 weeks beginning in 2024, preparing to increase it even further to 18 weeks the following year.
Studies underpinning this policy overhaul include MetLife's own 2020 Employee Benefits Trends Study, which highlighted the fact that thirty percent of the company's personnel are women over the age of forty-a demographic significantly impacted by menopause-related workforce attrition.
The conclusions drawn from the study pointed to a clear appetite for augmented leave benefits as a driver of workforce engagement. Insights were also drawn from the survey conducted by Diversity Council Australia, contributing to the comprehensive approach of MetLife towards leave entitlements and employee welfare, which includes support planning and educational measures for those returning to work after an absence.
Alex Sosnov, Head of People & Culture at MetLife, asserts, "Our dedication to employee welfare includes pioneering initiatives that not only acknowledge the invaluable contributions of our team members but also recognize the individuality of their needs."
The introduction of these novel benefits exemplifies the company's commitment to its employees' professional and personal aspirations, substantiating the belief that such supportive measures are instrumental in fostering an inclusive workplace. In addition, this change is tactically aimed at retaining and attracting top talent critical to MetLife's success in the marketplace.
Bupa, a leading health insurer in Australia, has unveiled plans to significantly enhance mental health services by establishing a network of clinics named Mindplace. This initiative aims to open 60 clinics nationwide by 2027, aligning closely with the government's objective of operating 61 walk-in Medicare Mental Health Centres by mid-2026. - read more
In response to financial challenges faced by Cohealth, a non-profit community health service, the federal government has allocated $1.5 million to maintain its GP services in Melbourne's inner north and west. This funding ensures that clinics in Collingwood, Fitzroy, and Kensington will remain operational until 31 July 2026, providing essential care to approximately 12,500 patients who were at risk of losing access to their GPs. - read more
Patients Australia, in collaboration with La Trobe University, has released the 2025 Patient View Report, shedding light on the increasing financial burden faced by Australians seeking healthcare services. The report indicates that 62% of patients incur out-of-pocket expenses when visiting their GP, with nearly half of these individuals paying an average gap fee of $51 or more. - read more
Australian insurers are actively revising their investment portfolios in response to evolving geopolitical events and a stabilizing economic environment. A recent report by Janus Henderson Investors reveals that 47% of insurers plan to increase their investment portfolio risk in the next 12 months, with a significant focus on private markets. - read more
Registered building practitioners in New South Wales are facing a critical deadline to secure professional indemnity (PI) insurance by July 1, 2026, in accordance with the Design and Building Practitioners Act 2021. This legislation, which originally set a 2025 enforcement date, has been extended by 12 months to allow the industry additional time for preparation. - read more
Income protection insurance is a type of personal insurance that provides financial support if you are unable to work due to illness or injury. It ensures that you continue to receive a portion of your income, helping you manage daily expenses and financial commitments during recovery. - read more
For self-employed Australians, the financial stability provided by consistent income is the backbone of both personal and business success. Unlike traditional employees, who might have access to sick leave or employer-sponsored disability benefits, self-employed individuals are solely responsible for their financial security in the event of illness or injury. This is where income protection insurance steps in as a crucial safeguard. - read more
Filing an insurance claim in Australia can be a daunting process, especially if you are not familiar with the necessary steps and requirements. Claiming insurance is crucial when you need financial support, whether due to a natural disaster, accident, or another unexpected event. - read more
Income protection is an integral part of maintaining your financial security, especially in the event that unforeseen illnesses or injuries prevent you from working. Enabling you to receive a percentage of your regular income, this type of insurance provides a safety net, ensuring that you can continue to cover your living expenses and financial obligations whilst recovering. - read more
Income protection insurance is a type of cover designed to provide you with a safety net if you are unable to work due to illness or injury. By offering regular payments that replace a portion of your income, it helps ensure that you can maintain your lifestyle and cover essential expenses during challenging times. - read more
Knowledgebase
Incontestability Clause: A provision in a life insurance policy that prevents the insurer from voiding coverage due to a misstatement by the insured after a certain period.