Melbourne Maternity Leave: What New Parents Need to Know

By Pei Aui – Melbourne Newborn, Maternity, Family and Couples Photographer

Becoming a parent is one of the most exciting (and sometimes overwhelming) times of your life. Between planning for the arrival of your little one, setting up the nursery, and daydreaming about those newborn cuddles, there’s also the practical side to think about—like maternity and parental leave. If you’re a first-time mum in Melbourne, you may be wondering: When should I start planning my maternity leave? How much support is available? And what do I need to know before my baby arrives? Let’s break it down.

Understanding Parental Leave in Melbourne

In Australia, maternity and parental leave is supported through the Federal Government’s Paid Parental Leave scheme (administered by Centrelink). Here’s what you need to know:

Eligibility: To receive Paid Parental Leave (PPL), you must meet the work test, income test, and residency rules. Most working parents in Melbourne will qualify if they’ve been working at least part-time in the 13 months before birth.
How much you get: As of July 2025, eligible parents can access up to 22 weeks (110 days) of government-funded Paid Parental Leave, paid at the national minimum wage (currently $915.90 per week before tax).
Flexibility: Leave can be taken in a continuous block or split into multiple blocks within the first 24 months of your child’s life.
Partner leave: Eligible partners can access up to 2 weeks of Dad and Partner Pay at the same minimum wage rate.

👉 You can read the full details and check your eligibility directly on the Centrelink Paid Parental Leave page.

👉 Tip: Apply up to three months before your due date so payments can start shortly after your baby arrives.

What About Employer-Supported Leave?

In addition to the government scheme, many workplaces offer their own maternity or parental leave benefits. These vary widely; some employers provide several weeks of fully paid leave on top of the government allowance, while others may allow extended paid or unpaid leave.

It’s best to speak with your HR department early in your pregnancy so you understand:

How much leave you’re entitled to
Whether it’s paid or unpaid
How it works alongside government payments

Two hands gently cupped together holding tiny newborn feet taken during a in home Melbourne newborn photography session by Pei A Photography

How Long Should You Take?

This is one of the most personal decisions you’ll make. Every family’s situation is different, and there’s no one-size-fits-all answer.

Shorter leave (3–4 months): Some parents return earlier due to career or financial reasons. If this is you, start researching daycare options well before your baby arrives. Daycare wait times in Melbourne can vary a lot—some suburbs have waitlists stretching up to a year, while others have plenty of centres with spots available much sooner.
Longer leave (6–12 months or more): This allows more bonding time and a gentler pace in adjusting to parenthood. However, it may also mean more financial planning and career considerations.

At the end of the day, the “right” choice is the one that works for your family.

Enjoying Your Maternity Leave in Melbourne

Yes, parental leave is about caring for your baby, but it’s also about creating special memories. Melbourne has plenty of baby-friendly activities that let you bond while meeting other parents:

Baby Sensory classes – I did this with my daughter and absolutely loved it! Each week is themed differently, with activities like music, baby sign language, touch, singing, lights, and colours. Not only do babies get wonderful stimulation, but mums also get to socialise and connect with others on the same journey. You can find out more on the Baby Sensory website (I’m not affiliated—just a big fan!).
Local mum groups on Facebook – Many suburbs in Melbourne have mums and bubs groups you can join for advice, support, and catch-ups. A simple search like “[your suburb] mums” on Facebook usually does the trick.
Yoga with baby classes – A beautiful way to ease back into movement while bonding with your little one.
Walks in Melbourne’s parks – Fresh air, sunshine, and pram-friendly paths are perfect for resetting your mind and body. Some mom groups offers pram + walk in the park dates too.

A sleeping newborn baby sleeps while wearing a soft beige bodysuit taken during an in home newborn photography session in Melbourne.

Don’t Forget to Capture the Memories

Your maternity leave will fly by quicker than you expect. Between sleepless nights, first smiles, and countless milestones, these are moments you’ll want to remember forever.

That’s why I offer maternity and newborn photography sessions, designed to capture your family’s unique journey. Many families book both together through my Parental Bundle package, which includes a special discount when securing maternity + newborn sessions in advance.