How to access parental leave pay in Australia

In Australia, some parents can receive parental leave payments from the government and their employers. But not everybody is eligible. This article breaks down what’s available, who can claim, and how to access these benefits.

The period of bonding between mother, father, and the unborn child. Credit: Moment RF / pipat wongsawang/Getty Images

Key Points

• Australia’s Parental Leave Pay offers up to 22 weeks of payments for eligible parents caring for a newborn or adopted child.
• Eligibility requires meeting strict work, income, and residency criteria.
• From July 2025, Parental Leave Pay will increase to 24 weeks and include superannuation contributions. From July 2026, it will increase to 26 weeks.
• Some employers provide additional parental leave payments with varying conditions.

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