Paternity and partner leave in Australia
| Paternity leave, legally referred to as partner or concurrent parental leave in Australia, allows fathers and partners to take time off to care for a newborn or newly adopted child. Partners are also legally entitled to use their paid personal/carer’s leave to attend medical appointments or care for a pregnant partner who is unwell. |
What are paternity and partner leave entitlements in Australia?
Like the birth mother, the father can generally take up to 12 months of unpaid parental leave under the National Employment Standards (NES), with the ability to request a further 12 months.
The government-funded Paid Parental Leave scheme can also be shared between parents, with a dedicated portion reserved for the second parent to support more equal sharing of caregiving responsibilities.
Can I use carer’s leave to look after my pregnant partner?
Yes, if they’re sick or need care because of pregnancy complications. Carer’s leave can be taken to care for an immediate family member who is ill, injured, or dealing with an emergency. This includes caring for a partner experiencing a pregnancy-related illness.
Do I need a medical certificate for a partner’s or carer’s leave?
Usually, yes. Your employer may ask for evidence that the leave was actually needed. This may include a medical certificate confirming that your partner or a family member was unfit for work and required your care.
How Hola Health can help
If your pregnant partner is unwell and you need to take time off work to care for her, you have the right to use paid carer’s leave under the NES. Hola Health can provide a carer’s certificate online within minutes, if clinically appropriate, ensuring you have the legal documentation your employer needs without leaving your partner’s side.
Telehealth is not suitable for medical emergencies. If your partner experiences severe abdominal pain, bleeding, or signs of a pregnancy emergency, call 000 or visit the nearest emergency department.
