NPAN | News

Case Win: Maternity Leave Entitlements in Nursing

Written by NPAN | Jul 24, 2024 2:00:00 AM
Advocacy & Support for Nurses

For many contract workers, securing maternity leave benefits can be complicated by the nature of their employment terms and the timing of their pregnancies

For contract nurses like Ashley, a member of the NPAA South Australia branch, navigating maternity leave came with uncertainties and challenges. Despite her ongoing requests for permanent employment Ashley’s short term contract continued to be extended multiple times over the course of her 2 year employment. 

Given the precarious nature of her employment status Ashley had concerns surrounding her maternity leave entitlements. 

Upon consulting with HR, Ashley learned that she was indeed eligible for 16 weeks of maternity leave, aligning with the end date of her current contract. While this news was reassuring, it also prompted Ashley to seek further details about her entitlements and the implications of her contract status. Ashley sought further clarification and advice from NPAA. 

Ashley was assigned one of our case managers who promptly answered all of her questions, clarifying her entitlements and, as a result of NPAA’s support in the matter, Ashley’s employer granted her maternity leave plus a new contract after her current contract expires. 

How is the NPAA so effective in defending members during workplace issues and disputes? Our experienced and professional case managers use our unique RED™ case resolution system.

Why is the NPAA different? We believe that real change in healthcare STARTS with empowering frontline nurses, not bureaucrats. 

If you are a member of NPAA and need assistance, please submit an Member Support Form on your dashboard, or contact us at hotline@npaa.asn.au 

To find out more about NPAA and become protected today visit: npaa.redunion.com.au/join

The name of the member in this article has been changed for confidentiality reasons.