Planning leave

When planning for parenthood, both employees and employers need to make informed decisions around parental leave. While entitlements vary for mothers, fathers, and adoptive parents, how much leave is taken and when is also influenced by a wide range of professional and personal factors (e.g., the nature of the job, finances, job security, maternal and child health, childcare options, and support networks). Starting conversations about leave early and communicating any changes in plans can help to minimise uncertainty for both employers and employees (see Leave).