Changes to paid parental leave offer more flexibility to self-employed parents

The Morrison government will increase the flexibility available to families underpaid parental leave entitlements under a new policy announced yesterday.

Minister for Women Kelly O’ Dwyer said the federal government will change the paid parental leave scheme to allow parents to access payments in pieces, rather than in one block.

Currently, parents must access the 18-weeks of commonwealth-supported parental leave, paid at the minimum wage of $719 each week, in one chunk.

Under the changes, parents will be able to access the scheme in smaller chunks, which will allow them to return to work on a part-time basis and still receive taxpayer support for time off.

Workers who experience domestic violence will also be able to access their super early under the coalition’s new plan, which is worth $109 million over four years.

O’Dwyer said the increased flexibility would support employees and small business owners.

“Families actually want more choices about their family arrangements,” she said in a statement on Tuesday.

“ doesn’t take into account that there are many women who are self-employed, who are running their own small businesses, and who can’t spend 18 weeks away.” Read more

Matthew Elmas - SmartCompany - 21 November 2018