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Quick Summary
In New Zealand, Paid Parental Leave is government-funded and administered by Inland Revenue (IRD). To qualify, you generally need to meet specific employment or self-employment thresholds in the months leading up to your due date.
Details
Overview of Paid Parental Leave in NZ
Paid Parental Leave (PPL) provides financial support to eligible primary carers taking time off work to look after a new baby or a child under 6 joining their family.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for Paid Parental Leave through Inland Revenue (IRD), you must meet the '6-month test'. This means in the 12 months immediately before your expected due date or the date you become the primary carer, you must have worked for at least an average of 10 hours a week for any period of 26 weeks.
- You can combine periods of employment.
- Casual, temporary, and self-employed workers can also qualify if they meet the threshold.
Payment Rates and Duration
- Duration: Eligible primary carers can receive up to 26 weeks of Paid Parental Leave.
- Rates: The payment is capped at the maximum rate set by the government, or matches your average weekly earnings if they are lower than the maximum.
How to Apply
- Check your eligibility through your myIR account.
- Apply online via Inland Revenue (IRD) or Employment New Zealand once you are ready to start your leave.
- Inform your employer at least 3 weeks before your leave is due to start.
Source: Inland Revenue (ird.govt.nz) | Employment New Zealand (employment.govt.nz)