18 weeks plus 2
The report is out, and it proposes 18 weeks at the minimum adult weekly wage level for all eligible parents which is currently $543.78 per week (unless you don't earn that much). Two weeks leave for the other parent is also proposed. The scheme proposed is taxable, and would also be taken into account in assessing welfare payments. More details here. Recipients lose eligibility for Family Tax benefit B, and won't get the $5000 baby bonus. I'd love to know what you think about this? I have my doubts. It is a bit better than the 14 weeks I expected, but still not high enough in the view of the experts. Although paid in some instances by employers, it is fully funded by the taxpayers (employers will get refunds from the government). The only cost to employers is in funding superannuation payments if you've been with them for 12 months before the birth. Remember, it is only a proposed model. There will be consultations on the model, and the feedback that the Productivity Commission receives will have some influence on the final recommended model. It might be a good idea to check out how to give your feedback.
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