Earlier this year, Studio Nine Architects introduced Paid Parental Leave for both primary and secondary carers, giving our people greater opportunity to spend this meaningful time with their loved ones and navigate the transition into a new stage of life as a family.
For us, recognising both carers is an important part of this initiative. Welcoming a child is an exciting and significant transition for the whole family. Providing time away from work allows our people to be present, support one another and experience those formative early weeks and months together.
“We want our people to be with us long term, and that means supporting them through different stages of their lives. This is an investment in our staff not just as employees, but as people. Supporting our people ultimately makes the studio stronger and, for us, it’s about living our values and putting People First,” says Director and father Justin Cucchiarelli.
Studio Operations Manager Elise Rundell brings both a practice and personal perspective to the initiative.
“As someone who sits within management, and is also a mother, I understand the significance of this policy from both sides. Having now taken leave with my second child, I can appreciate personally what that time means for a family, while also recognising what it says about the kind of practice we want to be and the commitment we’re willing to make to our people.”
For Senior Architect and first-time parent Kanishk Meghani, the initiative will provide the opportunity to experience this transition from the perspective of a secondary carer.
“Having the support of the studio means I can take that time as a father to be present with my family — supporting my wife, taking an active role as a parent and experiencing those early moments together.”
The value of the initiative isn’t only felt by those directly accessing parental leave. For Architect Monique Nolan, its significance also lies in what it contributes to the culture of the practice and the way people are supported as their lives and careers evolve.
“Policies that recognise major life events help create a culture where people feel valued beyond their day-to-day role. They allow people to navigate different stages of life while continuing to grow, contribute and build meaningful careers over the long term.”
Recognising both primary and secondary carers is one of the ways we are continuing to put our People First value into practice, supporting our people through different stages of life.