Paid Parental Leave Increases Benefit Parents of Children with Down Syndrome

Today in Canberra, Senator the Hon Katy Gallagher and Minister the Hon Amanda Rishworth announced the launch of expanded Paid Parental Leave provisions.

"All too often people with disability and their families are relegated to disability only policy. Mainstream macroeconomic policy changes such as the expanded Paid Parental Leave Scheme positively impact all parents and families, so too parents of bubs with Down syndrome who are babies first." 

"Parents of bubs with Down syndrome tell us that this expanded time at home whilst still maintaining financial security enables them to engage in early intervention and therapies, as well as spend time in these precious early days with their children. So too, primary carers who are vastly women are enabled to engage in the workforce whilst balancing the joys of parenting."

Kieran Fisher and Jenny Lai attended the press conference with their sons Henry and Thomas. Keiran welcomed the changes stating that, "This allows me to be at home with my family and more involved in supporting Henry to be a ig brother and to play a bigger role in his therapy appointments that to date I've not been able to attend."

Jenny added, "Recovering after birth takes a significant mental and physical toll so these changes give mums more time to recover and receive the support they need."

From July 1 2024, parents will receive 22 weeks of Paid Parental Leave, up from 20 weeks last year. This will continue to expand each year until the scheme reaches 26 weeks in July 2026. 

When fully rolled out to 26 weeks, families will receive around $24,000 in government-funded parental leave.

By expanding the scheme to a full six months by 2026, families will receive an extra six weeks of paid leave following the birth or adoption of their child.

Superannuation will also be paid on Paid Parental Leave from July 2025, with legislation to be put to the parliament later this year.

Down Syndrome NSW is pleased to ensure that people with Down syndrome and their families have a voice not only in disability policy but across all policy areas that affect their lives. With one in five Australians living with a disability, it is critical they are part of all mainstream policy dialogues, supported by trusted peak body  organisations like Down Syndrome NSW. 

Read Australian Government Joint Media Release by Senator the Hon Katy Gallagher and Minister the Hon Amanda Rishworth here: