The federal government is concerned making domestic and family violence leave a workplace right could hinder the employment of women.
Labor says the universal right to such leave would benefit those who have experienced violence, as well as businesses through improved productivity, increased employee retention and reduced absenteeism.
But Assistant Treasurer Kelly O'Dwyer says such a measure could make it more difficult for some employers to take on women.
"You have to be very careful here that you are not putting at disadvantage the very people you are seeking to help," she told Sky News on Wednesday.
"You potentially can do that if you are going to make it more difficult for employers to employ women in circumstances where they've got very difficult arrangements."
Domestic violence root causes were the key focus of the government's agenda, Ms O'Dwyer said.
Labor is proposing to include five days paid domestic and family violence leave in the National Employment Standards.
The NES provide a statutory baseline for all employees covered by the national workplace relations system.
Labor will work with unions and business to discuss the rollout of the leave.
A number of employers already provide domestic and family violence leave, including Telstra, NAB, Virgin Australia, IKEA and Blundstone Boots for 1.6 million workers.
Government MP Craig Lundy, whose family owns a hotel empire, said leave entitlements for a variety of reasons were built into awards.
"Whether or not we need to go to further sub-defining that, is a matter ... to discuss over time," he told reporters.
Most employers would show empathy to female workers in domestic violence situations.
Liberal colleague David Coleman said the idea should not be ruled out.
"I think it's something that should be considered," he said.
Government employees in South Australia will receive an extra 15 days of paid leave so they can keep their jobs while dealing with family violence.
Independent senator Glenn Lazarus is concerned the Labor plan could burden small businesses, but agrees action needs to be taken.
"We can't do enough for women that are subjected to domestic violence," he told reporters.
* National domestic violence helpline: 1800 737 732 or 1800RESPECT. In an emergency call triple-zero.
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