Countdown staff who are affirming their gender will now be offered an additional two weeks of paid leave to help them do so.
The announcement on Tuesday means any team member transitioning will be offered two weeks paid and two weeks unpaid leave to do so. It's being celebrated by the executive director of RainbowYOUTH, who says it's a great example of how employers can create inclusive and supportive work environments.
"We're stoked to see companies such as Countdown recognise the barriers our communities face with transitioning at work and take the necessary steps to ensure trans and non-binary employees feel supported by their employer," said Pooja Subramanian.
A 2019 study showed 57 percent of trans and non-binary people surveyed did not disclose their gender identity at work over the fear of being discriminated against.
Countdown's general manager Kiri Hannafin says the change to the supermarket Gender Diverse and Gender Affirmation Policy is another way the business can support its workers.
"I'm really pleased to now be taking this next important step," she said on Tuesday.
"Gender affirmation can be difficult and complex, often involving medical appointments, surgical procedures and mental health impacts. By providing two weeks of paid leave, we can give our team the ability to look after themselves without having to worry about missing work and the pressures that can come with that."
