At RACQ we are lucky to have had paid Parental leave for over a decade. Until recently, we’ve had a relatively low take up from dad’s utilising the option, but that is something that we hope to see change into the future. Our Parental Leave Policy applies to all employees that are employed under an employment contract or an EBA that have completed 12 months continuous service with RACQ. Eligible employees who are the Primary Caregiver for a child, receive 12 weeks paid parental leave to be taken within a year of the child being born.
Adam Walsh is a Process and Systems Analyst at RACQ. Adam recently made the decision to take paid parental leave so that his partner could return to work, and we think that that is something to celebrate!
Here’s what Adam has shared with us about his first 6 weeks on Parental Leave;
How did you come to make the decision that you would take Parental Leave?
Adam: “The decision making process was reasonably straightforward, we (Emma and I) didn’t want to put Elliot into daycare at a young age. With Emma changing jobs between Noah and falling pregnant with Elliot she missed being able to take her new job’s parental leave by a month or two. Knowing that I was eligible to take parental leave from RACQ, we made the decision I would take the leave to be a stay at home dad.“
What have you learnt since being on Parental leave?
Adam: “Being able to spend time with your little ones has really helped me to see how quickly they grow up, how much they change from one day to the next, and how quick time flies. I have a new found appreciation on how difficult being the primary carer for your kids can be but the smiles and giggles make all those nappy changes and sleepless nights well worth it.”
What have you enjoyed most about being on Parental Leave?
Adam: “As a family we have had the ability to make memories through long weekends away and take family trips to give the kids experiences. From time spent up the Sunshine Coast at Australia Zoo and Sealife Aquarium, to time spent at Seaworld and Paradise Country memories have been made that the family will remember.”
What advice do you have for other dads considering taking Parental Leave?
Adam: “I would definitely recommend any Dad’s considering taking parental leave to do it. It isn’t going to be all sunshine and fun, I had the unfortunate experience of gastro going through the family in my first week off. Those times are dwarfed by the good; it is such a wonderful time, and so rewarding, seeing them grow up with the love they hold for you in their eyes.“
Adam returned to work after 12 weeks of Parental Leave this week! Welcome back Adam!
Subscribe to our fortnightly Women at Work email to find out about new stories, events and career building resources.