Printing Industries is drawing attention to a recent uptick in absenteeism within the industry, saying it reflects trends in the Australian economy more broadly.

Absenteeism is a habitual pattern of absence from a duty or obligation without good reason. It has been viewed as an indicator of poor individual performance, as well as a breach of an implicit contract between employee and employer.

Paul Mitchell, national workplace relations manager, PIAA, says absenteeism is becoming a $33bn dollar issue for the Australian economy per annum in lost productivity, and the printing industry is not immune to the challenge.

"Printers are having significant issues with regards to absenteeism and it is having a direct impact on business productivity. This trend is definitely growing, with an increasing number of members engaging us to clarify personal leave eligibility and the entitlements of business owners.

"The Printing Industries Association of Australia stands committed to ensuring that its members have the most up-to-date policies in place in order to mitigate absenteeism to increase the productivity of business.

"Of course, there will be occasions where employees must take personal leave for illness or to care for someone close to them. However, personal leave should not be considered annual leave. Personal leave should be used appropriately and employers should have confidence that employees are not taking advantage of accrued personal leave.”

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