From today working parents expecting a baby in the New Year will be able to lodge their claims for Paid Parental Leave.

Member for Grayndler Anthony Albanese said eligible working parents in the Inner West can lodge their claims up to three months before their baby’s due date.

“Looking after a newborn is very tiring and time consuming so to make things easier the Government is allowing parents to apply for paid parental leave in advance,” Mr Albanese said.

“However, I would encourage parents to discuss their leave plans with their employer before lodging a claim.”

The Gillard Labor Government’s Paid Parental Leave scheme provides eligible working parents of babies born or adopted from 1 January 2011 with parental leave pay for up to 18 weeks at the minimum wage, which is currently $570 a week before tax.

“Labor supports working parents in the Inner West and that’s why we are delivering Australia’s first Paid Parental Leave scheme,” Mr Albanese said.

“Many local casual and part-time workers, contractors and the self-employed, will have access to paid parental leave for the first time.”

“We’ve also committed to introducing two weeks paid paternity leave from 1 July 2012, giving local dads time at home with their new born babies.”

To help parents get all their paperwork done before the birth of their child, claims for Family Tax Benefit and Maternity Immunisation Allowance can also be lodged early, using a combined claim form with Paid Parental Leave.

Eligible expectant parents can apply for Paid Parental Leave online at www.familyassist.gov.au or pick up an application form at any Medicare or Centrelink office or by calling 13 6150.