I’ve put together this list of resources to guide the answers to some of our career mums FAQs.

Parental leave and family benefits

Maternity and parental leave

The National Employment Standards stipulate that all Australian employees are entitled to 12 months of parental leave.  The Fair Work Ombudsman publishes detailed information about parental leave, including applying for parental leave, taking parental leave and keeping in touch with your employer while on leave.

Paid parental leave scheme

The Australian government’s parental leave pay is administered by the Department of Human Services. The website includes information in relation to eligibility and making a claim.  The government also provides Dad and Partner pay for dads and partners caring for a new child.

Other family benefits

The Department of Human Services website also provides information in relation to the Parenting Payment and Family Tax Benefit.

Return to work

Breastfeeding and expressing

Breastfeeding is a protected ground of discrimination. Failure by an employer to provide adequate breastfeeding facilities, such as a private room for expressing and a fridge to store breast milk, may constitute discrimination. More information is published by the Fair Work Ombudsman.

Flexible working arrangements

Employees who have worked with the same employer for 12 months can request flexible working arrangements if they are the parent of a child who is school aged or younger.  Employers can only refuse these requests on reasonable business grounds. The Fair Work Ombudsman publishes template letters which include ideas on how to request flexible working arangements.

Supporting working parents

Supporting Working Parents is an Australian government initiative which provides information and resources for working parents and their employers. The website includes guides to your rights in relation to pregnancy, parental leave and returning to work.

Child care

Child care providers

Find a local child care service using this wizard which includes all government approved child care facilities.

Child care rebates

The childcare rebate covers 50% of out of pocket child care expenses for approved child care, up to an annual limit per child. Find out more.

Mental health care

Post and Antenatal Depression Association (PANDA)

PANDA supports women, men and families to recover from post and antenatal depression and anxiety. Find out more.

NGALA

NGALA works with families and communities to enhance their experience of parenting and the development of children. Find out more.

Beyond Blue

BeyondBlue provides information and support for those with depression and anxiety. They offer free support by telephone, email and online chat.  Find out more.

Breastfeeding support

Australian Breastfeeding Association

I also highly recommend the Breastfeeders in Australia Facebook group.