More than 11 million workers will soon have access to 10 days of paid domestic violence leave each year.
Legislation underpinning the leave cleared the Senate on Wednesday with some changes, including beefed-up confidentiality requirements for employers.
Labor senator Jenny McAllister said the laws would have a significant impact.
"This bill will not end domestic violence but it's a very important step that will save lives," she told the upper house.
"No worker should ever have to choose between their safety and their income."
Casual workers will be eligible for the leave, while perpetrators will not be covered.
The coalition supported the bill but raised concerns about the costs imposed on small business owners.
The Greens were also supportive but called for additional funding for strained frontline services.
The bill will be signed off by the lower house on Thursday and will come into effect by August next year.
At least $1.7 billion will be spent over the next six years to tackle violence against women and children.
