The Federal Government has asked the Productivity Commission to examine ways the Government can provide improved support to parents with newborn children.

Any policy reforms in this area will be aimed at ensuring strong and sustainable economic growth, take into account Australia’s ageing population and the importance of early childhood development, and support families in balancing work and family responsibilities, according to a joint statement by Treasurer Wayne Swan, Deputy Prime Minister Julia Gillard and Minister for Families, Jenny Macklin.

The Productivity Commission will look at the economic and social costs and benefits of paid maternity, paternity and parental leave.

The Commission will conduct an examination and provide an opportunity for public participation. It will report by February 2009. Public hearings will be held and submissions from the public will also be sought, with a report produced for the Government to be released publicly.

For more details see www.pc.gov.au/inquiry/parentalleave  or phone 02 6240 3239.

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