“While most parents across Australia are entitled to paid primary parental leave,only 12 per cent of those who take it are men,” Premier Dominic Perrottet said.
The changes,accounted for the upcoming state budget,will take effect in October.
Under current public sector rules,only the parent deemed the primary carer can take 14 weeks leave,whereas the second parent can only access two weeks of paid leave at the time of their child’s birth or adoption. A further 12 weeks is available if they take over primary care duties later on and the other parent returns to work.
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“Children don’t see their parents as ‘primary carers’ or ‘secondary carers’ – just as mums or dads,” Treasurer Matt Kean said. “Encouraging more dads to take up parental leave is crucial to supporting all parents to be able to choose to have a career,have a family or have both.”
The government said the bonus leave scheme is unique in Australia. To earn the bonus leave,both parents - even if they are employed outside of the public service - must take 12 weeks of parental leave.
“These changes to our parental leave offerings will encourage more equal sharing of caring responsibilities right from the start of a child’s life,” Minister for Women Bronnie Taylor said.