The Federal Government has declared a Labor plan to enshrine paid domestic violence leave in law is “absolutely worth considering”.

Labor on Wednesday said it would legislate five days paid leave for men and women suffering family violence if elected.

A number of major companies — including Telstra and Ikea — already operate their own domestic violence leave programs.

• Protesters en route to PM’s office … with toys
• Labor’s plan on paid domestic violence leave
• Kiwi expats ‘don’t get a fair go’ from Australians

“Yes, it’s absolutely worth considering,” Social Services Minister Christian Porter told ABC News 24’s Capital Hill.

“It’s worth having very good look at how this is working in the private sector.

“There are some progressive companies that have instituted their own versions of what Labor has suggested.

“Ultimately you have to change people’s attitudes and Australian attitudes generally towards violence.”

Mr Porter earlier on Wednesday released disturbing research showing dangerous attitudes about violence towards women are deeply entrenched.

It shows women are often blamed for attacks against them, men are excused with phrases like “boys will be boys”, and the severity of the violence is played down.

The research — unveiled on White Ribbon Day — will inform a $30 million campaign against domestic violence, which is due to start next year.

“So much of this is a cultural problem and it requires leadership from mums and dads with their little boys, and it requires leadership from prime ministers and the leaders of big corporations,” Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull said.

The Opposition’s proposal would mean paid family violence leave added to the National Employment Standards.

Casual workers would be entitled to unpaid leave under the ALP plan.

“That really is an important message,” Labor Employment spokesman Brendan O’Connor said.

“Not only will it provide material support for women who might find themselves in this awful predicament, but it also sends the message that political leaders and community leaders alike do not condone this behaviour.”

– ABC