Media release | Gadens seeks to lead the market with ground-breaking parental leave package

Earlier this week, the Treasurer announced further details of the Australian Government’s increase in paid parental leave.

Gadens welcomes that change and the impact it will have on the lives of all Australians.

Gadens accepts that more can be done in the private sector and is launching a comprehensive parental leave package in Melbourne and Sydney which it believes leads the legal sector in Australia.

Key aspects of the new policy include:

• 30 weeks’ paid leave irrespective of gender identity, from permanent employees’ first day at the firm.
• Superannuation payments to be made for 52 weeks, calculated on a full-time equivalent salary for permanent employees whilst on parental leave.
• Pregnancy loss and fertility support.
• Comprehensive coaching to remain connected with the firm during leave and on return.
• Measures to ensure success on return to work.

“People are at the centre of everything we do here at Gadens. Although some elements of this enhanced program are aimed at closing the gender pay gap and supporting women in the workplace, the key theme is to help all of our people who are balancing the most important journey in their life with the needs of our business, clients and broader community. We will support them in succeeding as best they can in their family life and career,” said Mark Pistilli, CEO.

Commenting on the new policy Lisa Eskander, Head of People and Development said:

“This is a progressive policy for a progressive firm. I’m proud that we are supporting our people in this way and offering them the opportunity to build a family and a career together. Together with our ‘Your work. Your way’ policy, our genuine commitment to flexible working, and relentless focus on building a truly modern workplace, we are building an incredible place to work.”