The Paid Parental Leave scheme became available on 1 January 2011. As of 1 July 2011, funds can be advanced to employers so that they can provide Parental Leave pay to their eligible long-term employees.

Eligible employees who have new born or newly adopted children may get 18 weeks of funded pay at the National Minimum Wage. Full-time, part-time, casual, seasonal, contract and self-employed workers may also be eligible.

To prepare your business for the Paid Parental Leave scheme, you can register for Centrelink Business Online Services.

MORE: Click here to learn more about the Paid Parental Leave scheme.