The Australian Industry Group (Ai Group) has backed the possibility of a paid maternity leave scheme for the forthcoming Federal Budget, claiming it recommends the reform to clear up superannuation discrepancies.
“The announcement that a paid maternity leave scheme will be included in the Federal Budget is an important reform which is welcomed by the Australian industry Group,” Ai Group chief executive, Heather Ridout, said.
“The design of the scheme – 18 weeks at the minimum wage paid by the Government – is in line with Ai Group’s recommendations.
“The means testing of paid maternity leave is consistent with the need for fiscal caution and is supported by Ai Group – as too is the delay in its start date which will give time for businesses to prepare and understand the scheme.
“Superannuation obligations around paid maternity leave had been an issue of concern for employers and it’s good that the Government has indicated that employers will not be required to pay superannuation on the Paid Parental Leave entitlements.”