Paid Parental Leave

Australia's Paid Parental Leave scheme offers 18 weeks of leave for eligible parents after the birth or adoption of a child. It is fully funded by the government, paid at the minimum wage, and taxed as income. This leave is in addition to any employer-funded leave. The scheme supports women to stay connected to the workforce while raising children and aims to boost women's workforce participation.

Dad and Partner Pay

Dad and Partner Pay, available since January 2013, gives eligible fathers and partners two weeks of paid leave at the minimum wage to care for a newborn or adopted child. This includes same-sex couples and adoptive parents.

Keeping in Touch days - staying connected to the workplace

Keeping in Touch days let employees on unpaid parental leave return to work for a few days to stay updated, refresh skills, and prepare to return. Employees on unpaid leave get 10 days, paid at their normal wage, without affecting their leave. If they extend their leave beyond 12 months, they can take 10 more days. Activities during these days may include planning, training, or attending a conference.

Relevant Links:

• Paid Parental Leave Services Australia
• Paid Parental Leave Fair Work Ombudsman
• Dad and Partner Pay Services Australia
• Keeping in Touch Days Fair Work Ombudsman