The “Dad and partner pay scheme” will commence from 1 January 2013.

The government funded scheme is available to eligible fathers and partners providing care for children born or adopted on or after 1 January 2013. Eligible fathers and partners will be able to claim up to two weeks dad and partner pay at the rate of the national minimum wage (currently $606 a week, before tax).

One of the eligibility conditions is that the applicant must not be receiving paid leave or not working during the Dad and Partner Pay period (ie they must be on unpaid leave).

Claims can be lodged up to three months before the expected date of birth or adoption or within 12 months following their child’s birth or adoption.