NEW GUIDE TO MATERNITY LEAVE FOR WORKING MUMS
A free booklet detailing the latest workplace rights regarding maternity leave will soon be available from NSW hospitals, NSW Minister for Industrial Relations John Hatzistergos said today.
Mr Hatzistergos said the latest edition of Maternity at Work, produced by the Office of Industrial Relations, offered a step-by-step guide to maternity leave for new mothers, as well as their partners and employers.
"Recent changes to the industrial relations landscape may have left some women confused about their entitlements during and after pregnancy," Mr Hatzistergos said.
"Maternity at Work has been updated to ensure they can access the most current information about their rights and responsibilities.
"The booklet explains exactly how and when you should notify your employer that you intend to take maternity leave.
"It also outlines the rights of eligible employees to access paternity or partner and adoption leave, including updated information following the enactment of the Miscellaneous Acts Amendment (Same Sex Relationships) Act 2008."
Mr Hatzistergos said 80,000 booklets were being sent to NSW public and private hospitals this week and women attending antenatal clinics could pick up a copy.
Copies are also available on-line at www.industrialrelations.nsw.gov.au
Maternity at Work provides answers to key questions such as:
- How long must I have worked for an employer before I am entitled to maternity leave?
- Can I change the length of my maternity leave?
- Is maternity leave paid leave?
- Can I take maternity leave if I am employed on a casual basis?
- Can my employer force me to take maternity leave?
- Can I breastfeed in the workplace?
Sample letters that women can use to arrange maternity leave and a list of helpful contacts are also included.
