Question details

(2650) My constituency question is to the Minister for Children. A constituent from my electorate has written to me regarding the exclusion of permanent carers from paid parental leave arrangements in Victoria, and they highlighted that permanent carers take on full responsibility for children who cannot live with their birth families and they should have access to the same support afforded to other parents during this important period. My constituent noted from experience that permanent carers often support children who have experienced trauma, disruption and loss, and that the early stages of placement are critical for building stability, attachment and trust. They believe that access to paid leave would provide permanent carers with the time and financial security to focus on the child’s wellbeing, establish stable routines and attend appointments and services as may be required. Minister, will you advocate to your federal colleagues for the inclusion of permanent carers in paid parental leave? And in the meantime, what support is the government providing to permanent carers who are excluded from paid parental leave?