Conditional parental leave available

By LCDR Judith Rowe

Paid parental leave for permanent members of the Australian Defence Force, was introduced with effect from January 1, 2003 under certain qualifying conditions.

The issue of paid parental leave for ADF members came to the attention of the Minister Assisting the Minister for Defence, Danna Vale when a Service couple, adopting a child, were not entitled to paid maternity leave, as adoption is not within the scope of the Maternity Leave (Commonwealth Employees) Act 1973.

Subsequently, a provision for paid parental leave has been determined under section 58B of the Defence Act. It applies to new fathers, adoptive parents and women who do not qualify for paid maternity leave.

Parental leave with pay, of one week’s duration, can be taken at any time in the 66 weeks following the birth or adoption of your child, and counts as a period of effective service. The same determination also provides a means for reservists to suspend minimum training obligations while they care for their newborn or adopted child for up to 66 weeks from the birth or adoption of that child, as distinct from taking leave without pay. Existing arrangements allowing parental leave without pay for longer periods continue to apply.

Defence recognises that the modern family unit does not always fit a traditional model, and the parental leave entitlement demonstrates the commitment by the federal government and the department to work-life balance for all types for families. Whether you are a permanent or Reserve member of the ADF, there are now even more ways you can take time to care for your newborn or adopted child.

More information can be found in Chapter 8 of the ADF Pay and Conditions Manual. Similar provisions exist for civilian employees, who should consult the 2002-2003 Defence Employees Certified Agreement for guidance.

.