FAMILIES across the Bayside are set to benefit from major changes to Australia’s paid parental leave scheme with the Federal Government’s expanded support.
From July 1, eligible parents can access up to 26 weeks of paid parental leave, giving local families more time at home with their newborns and easing financial pressure during the early months of a child’s life.
Under the expanded scheme, families receiving the full entitlement will receive close to $30,000, an increase of around $16,000 compared with payments available four years ago.
The reform also includes a significant new measure.
Superannuation will now be paid on government-funded paid parental leave, helping parents, particularly women, build stronger retirement savings.
Women continue to shoulder most unpaid caring responsibilities and typically retire with less superannuation than men.
The addition of superannuation aims to help close the gender retirement gap and recognise the economic value of caring work.
More than 460,000 children nationwide have already benefited from the expanded scheme.
In Bonner, more than 45,000 families call the electorate home, and around 1600 local families access paid parental leave each year.
Federal Member for Bonner Kara Cook said the changes would make a meaningful difference for families across the region.
“As the mum of three young children, I know just how precious those first weeks and months with a new baby are,” she said.
“Families should not have to choose between spending that precious time with their newborn and paying the bills.”
Ms Cook said investing in parents ultimately benefits children, giving them the strongest possible start in life.
“For eligible families, almost $30,000 in support is meaningful cost-of-living relief,” she said.
“Paying superannuation on paid parental leave recognises that caring is valuable work and helps women build greater financial security for retirement.”
