This article explains ways dads and partners can make the most of parental leave.
Parental leave is a crucial time for bonding with a newborn or newly adopted child, and it’s not just for mothers. Dads and partners play an essential role in the early stages of a child's life, and taking parental leave can make a significant difference.
Parental leave is not just a statutory right but a precious opportunity for dads and partners to engage deeply in their child’s early development. The flexibility offered by the Parental Leave Pay scheme ensures that families can find an arrangement that works best for them. By taking advantage of this time, dads and partners can create lasting bonds and support their families during this critical period.
Here’s how dads and partners can make the most of it.
Understanding Parental Leave Pay
The Commonwealth Paid Parental Leave Scheme provides financial support to families, helping them manage the transition of welcoming a new child. Currently there are 22 weeks available per family, and by July 2025, it will rise to 24 weeks. Ultimately, the scheme aims to reach 26 weeks by July 2026. This can be shared by both parents.
Flexibility in Taking Leave
One of the significant advantages of the Parental Leave Pay scheme is its flexibility. Parents can take their leave in various ways to suit their family needs:
- Single Block: Taking all your leave in one go.
- Multiple Smaller Blocks: Dividing the leave into several smaller periods.
- Single Days: Utilising leave one day at a time.
- Combination: Mixing smaller blocks with single days for maximum flexibility.
This means you can tailor your leave to fit around your work and family commitments. Parents have two years from the child’s birth or adoption to use all their Paid Parental Leave quota days.
Claiming Parental Leave Pay
It’s important for at least one parent to claim Parental Leave Pay within 12 months of the child’s birth or adoption. The other parent then has two years to claim. In a couple, the most one parent can use is 90 days, leaving at least 10 days for the other parent. If you are a single parent, you can access the full number of days.
Sharing Leave for a Balanced Family Life
If you have a partner, sharing Parental Leave Pay can allow both parents to spend quality time with the new addition to the family. The birth mother or first adoptive parent usually makes the initial claim but can approve a transfer to the other parent. This collaborative approach ensures that both parents can support each other and bond with the child. Both parents can even take up to 10 days of leave at the same time, making it a perfect opportunity for family bonding and support.
How to Apply
For more information and to apply for Parental Leave Pay, visit Services Australia. The website provides detailed guidance on eligibility, application processes, and additional support available to new parents.