Do new fathers get paid paternity leave in Australia?

Yes, in Australia, new fathers are eligible for paid paternity leave. The Australian Government provides two types of paid parental leave: Dad and Partner Pay and the Parental Leave Pay.

Dad and Partner Pay provides eligible working dads or partners with up to two weeks of paid leave at the rate of the National Minimum Wage. It can be taken any time within the first year of the child's birth or adoption.

Parental Leave Pay provides eligible working parents with up to 18 weeks of paid leave at the rate of the National Minimum Wage. It can be taken by either parent or shared between them. To be eligible for Parental Leave Pay, you must have worked for at least 10 of the 13 months before the birth or adoption of your child, and meet other eligibility criteria.

In addition, some employers may offer additional paid parental leave to their employees. It's important to check with your employer and the Australian Government's parental leave website to determine your eligibility and entitlements.

It's worth noting that paid paternity leave is an important benefit for new fathers, as it allows them to take time off work to bond with their newborn child and support their partner during the early weeks and months of parenthood.

Here are some links to relevant resources for paid paternity leave in Australia:

1. Services Australia: This government website provides information on Dad and Partner Pay and Parental Leave Pay, including eligibility criteria and how to apply. You can access the website here: https://www.servicesaustralia.gov.au/individuals/services/centrelink/parental-leave-pay/what-it

2. Fair Work Ombudsman: The Fair Work Ombudsman provides information on parental leave entitlements for employees, including paid parental leave, and outlines the obligations of employers. You can access the website here: https://www.fairwork.gov.au/employee-entitlements/flexible-working-arrangements/parental-leave

3. Australian Government Paid Parental Leave Scheme: This government website provides detailed information on the Paid Parental Leave Scheme, including eligibility criteria, payment rates, and how to apply. You can access the website here: https://www.servicesaustralia.gov.au/individuals/services/centrelink/parental-leave-pay/how-much-you-can-get

4. Australian Council of Trade Unions: The ACTU provides information on parental leave entitlements for union members, including paid parental leave, and outlines the rights of employees. You can access the website here: https://www.actu.org.au/ohs-and-safety/bullying-and-harassment/workers-rights/parental-leave

These resources provide a comprehensive guide to paid paternity leave entitlements and the application process for new fathers in Australia.