paid parental leave

After 12 years since its introduction, policymakers have the chance to reform Paid Parental Leave (PPL)  within its grasp to finally bring Australia’s scheme into line with the OECD average, but we need a greater sense of urgency.

Advocates for parents appeared before a Senate Committee Inquiry on Monday, urging the government to lift its ambition on paid parental leave.

In many respects the illusive future of work has arrived. Will this momentum continue through to the new year?

The Albanese Government has been swift in communicating its intent to shift the dial by increasing the number of paid weeks offered, lifting the eligibility cap, making it more flexible and removing references to primary and secondary carer labels that encourage both parents to participate in taking the leave, but is it enough?  

While reforms to the PPL may make it more financially viable for parents to return to work, there are other factors at play too.

Labor’s first budget attempts to repair the bottom line, while supporting families with rising costs. It’s a good first step but not enough.

Here’s a snapshot of the reaction to the federal budget from women’s advocacy organisations and other groups.

The wishes of Australian women are seemingly being heard, with Labor’s first budget delivering strong initial steps toward gender equality.

The paid parental leave income test will be overhauled allowing households with incomes up to $350,000 access to the scheme.

The Albanese Government has made it clear in revamping the Commonwealth paid parental leave scheme that employers also have a role to play. 

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese’s push to extend paid parental leave (PPL) and incorporate “use it or lose it” provisions to encourage fathers to take parental leave, should be commended.

A huge number of workers across NSW will benefit from the “primary” and “secondary” carer labels being dumped