Expecting a child or adopting soon? Great news—Centrelink is rolling out major parental leave changes starting 1 July 2025, including extra paid leave and superannuation payments.
These new measures are designed to ease the financial load that comes with raising a new baby.
Extended Paid Parental Leave – Now 24 Weeks Long
From 1 July 2025, eligible parents will receive 120 days (or 24 weeks) of Paid Parental Leave, up from the current 110 days.
This extension means an extra 10 days of paid time off to focus on bonding with your newborn or newly adopted child.
Key Enhancements Include:
- More reserved days for each parent to share the responsibilities of early parenting.
- Increased flexibility, allowing both parents to take leave together if desired.
- Pre-birth claims remain valid. If your claim is lodged before July 2025, you’ll receive 110 days of leave. However, if your child is born on or after 1 July 2025, you’ll automatically receive the extra 10 days—no extra forms or steps needed.
Superannuation Payments Now Included – Starting July 2026
For the first time ever, Centrelink will contribute 12% superannuation on Parental Leave Pay starting in July 2026 (applied to leave taken from 1 July 2025).
How the Super Contribution Works
| Criteria | Details |
|---|---|
| Eligible Births/Adoptions | On or after 1 July 2025 |
| Super Contribution Rate | 12% of total Paid Parental Leave |
| Payment Date | Begins July 2026 (after financial year ends) |
| Both Parents Covered? | Yes, if leave is shared, each gets their share |
| Super Fund Required Action | None – Paid to your existing fund automatically |
What You Need To Do
There’s very little required on your part. Here’s what you should know:
- Apply for Paid Parental Leave as usual through Centrelink or MyGov.
- If you’d like to update or confirm your super fund details, visit the Australian Taxation Office (ATO) website.
- No additional forms are needed for the extra 10 days or the super payments—everything is handled by Centrelink.
Summary of 2025 Parental Leave Enhancements
| Feature | Before July 2025 | From 1 July 2025 |
|---|---|---|
| Paid Parental Leave Days | 110 days (22 weeks) | 120 days (24 weeks) |
| Super Contributions | None | 12% Paid from July 2026 |
| Flexibility for Parents | Limited | More flexibility for both parents |
| Automatic Processing | N/A | Yes – no paperwork needed |
The Centrelink parental leave changes for 2025 mark a significant improvement for Aussie families. With extended leave, new super contributions, and more flexibility for parents, this update offers meaningful support when it’s needed most.
Whether you’re planning to grow your family or already expecting, it’s the perfect time to explore your Centrelink benefits and prepare for these changes. For complete details, visit Services Australia or log in to MyGov.
FAQs
When do the changes to Paid Parental Leave begin?
The changes officially start on 1 July 2025. If your baby is born or adopted on or after this date, you’ll receive 120 days of paid leave.
Will Centrelink pay super on my leave?
Yes, for the first time, 12% super contributions will be paid on Parental Leave Pay, starting July 2026 (for births/adoptions from July 2025 onward).
Do I need to apply again for the extra 10 days?
No, you don’t need to submit extra paperwork. Centrelink will automatically increase your leave if your baby arrives after the policy kicks in.
Can both parents take leave at the same time?
Yes! The updated scheme allows both parents to take leave together, offering greater flexibility.