The Industrial Registrar of the South Australian Industrial Relations Commission today confirmed the Minutes of Order for Paid Maternity/Adoption Leave.

As previously advised, on 5th May 2005, in an historic decision, the Full Bench awarded 12 weeks Paid Maternity/Adoption Leave for those employees covered by the former “Parity Agreement”.

Today's confirmation of Minutes is the final procedural process which was necessary to formalise the introduction of the increased level of Paid Maternity/Adoption Leave.

Agencies are now formally able to apply the new provision.

For members commencing Paid Maternity/Adoption Leave on or from the 5th May 2005, the following entitlements are available;

12 weeks paid leave.

Paid leave can be taken in two periods.

Paid leave can be taken at full pay or half pay.

There is a RIGHT to return to work on a part time basis up until the child's second birthday.

Providing the member has twelve months service, the paid component of leave can be taken at any time, once a medical certificate indicating expected date of birth is provided.


17 June 2005