Next Steps for Paid Parental Leave In Australia: Roundtable Discussion Report

Abstract

The Roundtable identified many opportunities and levers to improve Australia's scheme in the future. One of the most recurring themes, agreed upon by policy influencers and academics alike, was the need to improve gender equality around Australia's paid parental leave scheme and facilitate the use of the scheme by fathers. Lessons from Iceland on dedicated leave provisions for mothers and fathers and associated gender equity benefits provide one potential model for Australia.