A new entitlement under the Federal Government’s Paid Parental Leave scheme has seen the introduction of two weeks government-funded pay at the national minimum wage – about $606 per week before tax – for working fathers and partners, including adoptive parents and same-sex partners whose child is born from January 1, 2013.

This scheme aims to provide families with financial support for eligible fathers and partners to take time off work to bond with their new baby as well as support mothers on the vital early months of their child’s life.

Dad and Partner Pay is administered and paid directly by the Federal Government, allowing businesses to support their employees without ending up out of pocket

Workers who may not have paid parental leave entitlements from their employer, such as self-employed, contractor and casual workers, may also be eligible.

Employers and employees can negotiate when to take the leave, but it must be taken within the first 12 months following the birth or adoption. Additionally employees cannot be working or on paid leave during their Dad and Partner Pay period.

Claims can be lodged up to three months before the expected date of birth or within the 12 months following it, and must be lodged by the father or partner who is eligible to receive the payment.

For more information about the Dad and Partners Paid Parental Leave scheme visit the Federal Government’s website.