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Baker McKenzie unveils 26-week paid parental leave policy

One of the world’s biggest law firms has upped its paid parental leave entitlement from 18 to 26 weeks, available to all Australian employees.

user iconJerome Doraisamy • 08 June 2022 • Big Law
Baker McKenzie unveils 26-week paid parental leave policy
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Global law firm Baker McKenzie is now offering employees 26 weeks of paid parental leave for all its Australian employees who welcome a new child, to be used within the first two years of the birth/adoption of the child.

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This marks an increase from the firm’s previous policy of 18 weeks of paid leave.

The benefit – which is now in effect – is available to all employees, with the firm encouraging males/co-parents to access it.

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Moreover, superannuation contributions will be paid on unpaid leave up to 52 weeks (noting that super is already paid on the parental leave payments).

Speaking about the bolstered policy, Baker McKenzie national managing partner Anthony Foley said: “As is currently the case, access to parental leave is available regardless of gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or caring status and is available within the first two years of the birth of their child. In addition, our firm does not distinguish between primary and secondary carers.”

Recognising the importance of providing support on return to work from parental leave, the firm noted in a statement, it will now increase – from one month to three – the budget relief provided to lawyers in order to help them transition back to work.

Baker chair of inclusion and diversity Anne-Marie Allgrove added: “Becoming a parent is one of the most exciting, and challenging, journeys we embark on in life.

“Whether you are having your first child or your fourth, we hope that our policy changes will help towards our people having a fulfilling home life and a successful career.”

Lawyers Weekly has reported extensively on the bolstering of parental leave and related policies by Australian law firms in recent times. You can read those stories below:

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