Paid parental leave

Paid parental leave is designed to support employees financially during the time they are away from work for the birth or adoption of a child. This scheme ensures that employees can take time off during these significant life events without losing all of their income. Depending on the specific rules and eligibility criteria, the leave payment can be provided by the Australian Government or the employer, offering financial support during this period.

Paid Parental Leave from 1 July 2026

Rates current from 1 July 2026.

For a child born or adopted on or after 1 July 2026, Parental Leave Pay is up to 26 weeks at the national minimum wage, and the Government also pays super on it. The payment is currently $1,004.70 a week (5 days at $200.94 a day) before tax. Employers generally pay it through payroll to eligible employees who have worked for them for at least 12 months, using Government funding, and do not pay super guarantee on it. It is separate from unpaid parental leave under the National Employment Standards. For example, an employee can receive Parental Leave Pay while on unpaid parental leave.

Read our guide to paid parental leave and super.