Get prepared to go back
Finding child care options
You may want to think about finding child care options when you return to work.
Apply for Child Care Subsidy
You may be eligible for Child Care Subsidy to help you with the cost of child care.
Transitioning back to work if you get Parental Leave Pay
You can return to work and keep taking Parental Leave Pay on any non-work days. This can include:
- part-time work arrangements
- weekends
- supplementing paid/unpaid leave.
If you are planning to work on a Parental Leave Pay day you can find out more on the Services Australia website.
Confirming your start date
When you decide to return to work, you’ll need to speak with your employer to confirm your start date and work arrangements. When you’re ready to return to work, you may ask for flexible hours.
Find out about flexible working arrangements and returning to work from parental leave on the Fair Work Ombudsman website.
What to expect
Returning to work after taking time off to care for a new family member can be daunting. It’s also an opportunity for you to:
- reconnect with your job and colleagues
- ease financial pressure
- add variety to your daily routine.
You may want to think about:
- setting up family routines
- finding child care options
- coming up with strategies to manage any stress.
Find out about returning to work on the Raising Children Network website.
Managing stress
Returning to work might cause you some stress. Too much stress can be overwhelming, making it hard to cope. Ask for help from family, friends and healthcare providers when you need it.
Find out about work-related stress on the Health Direct website.