Our Commitment to You

We understand that the recruitment industry is as diverse as the individuals it serves. With over 1000 recruitment consultants & agency owners trained under our belt, we’ve seen firsthand the impact of comprehensive support on professional growth. Our suite of services, courses, and programmes are designed with a commitment to practicality, innovation, and realising potential – and this extends to how we view and advocate for parental leave policies.

The Landscape of Parental Leave

Our research paints a varied picture. While statutory maternity leave in Australia offers up to 18 weeks at the national minimum wage, we’ve observed a broad spectrum of policies across the industry. Some agencies offer as little as 12 weeks, while others provide up to 26 weeks of full-pay maternity leave, along with additional benefits like superannuation contributions, IVF, and miscarriage leave, and even secondary carer’s leave for all genders. Paternity leave too varies, with some agencies offering a standard 2 weeks, while others provide more extended periods.

Why a Robust Policy Matters

Attracting and retaining talent isn’t just about numbers and figures; it’s about demonstrating a commitment to your team’s wellbeing and their life outside the office. A well-rounded maternity or paternity leave policy is a testament to an agency’s values, showcasing a commitment to supporting employees, promoting gender equality, and fostering a positive work-life balance.

Negotiating for Better

Our findings highlight an interesting trend: the power of negotiation. Some employees have successfully negotiated additional benefits, from commission payments during leave to extra payments for high performers. This underscores the importance of open dialogue and tailored policies that recognise individual contributions and circumstances.

Crafting Your Policy

For agency owners and leaders, the takeaway is clear: crafting a comprehensive parental leave policy isn’t just beneficial; it’s essential. Considerations should include:

• Duration of Paid Leave: Competitive and exceeding statutory requirements.
• Flexibility in Leave Options: Offering choices in how leave is taken.
• Financial Support: Beyond statutory requirements, consider full pay or additional contributions.
• Support for Both Parents: Encourage shared parenting responsibilities.
• Additional Types of Leave: For IVF, termination, miscarriage, and adoption.
• Flexible Return-to-Work Arrangements: Easing the transition back into work.
• Clear Communication: Ensuring policies are well understood and accessible.
• Regular Review and Benchmarking: Keeping policies competitive and relevant.

In Conclusion

Parental leave is more than just a policy; it’s a reflection of your agency’s ethos and commitment to its people. By embracing comprehensive and considerate approaches, we not only support our team members during one of life’s most significant moments but also cultivate a culture of care, respect, and mutual growth. At Hume Scope, we’re dedicated to helping you navigate this journey, ensuring that as your career flourishes, your family life is supported too.