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Maternity Leave Budget (Australia)
Plan your parental leave budget in A$: income changes, baby costs and a buffer, before the baby arrives.
Going on parental leave usually means less money coming in just as costs go up. Planning before the baby arrives lets you see the gap and fill it.
Map your leave income
List what you'll receive and when: employer paid leave (if any), government Parental Leave Pay, and any savings you'll draw on. Check Services Australia for current Parental Leave Pay rules.
Baby costs
- Nappies and wipes
- Car seat, pram, cot
- Clothes
- Medical and pharmacy
See our baby budget guide.
Build a buffer
Saving a few fortnights of expenses before leave starts gives you breathing room.
Related guides
- Fortnightly Budget App (Australia)
- Envelope Budgeting (Australia): The Digital Way
- Tax Time Checklist (Australia)
- Christmas Shopping List and Budget (Australia)
General information only, not financial or tax advice.
FAQ
What is Parental Leave Pay?
A government payment for eligible parents. Check Services Australia for current rules.
When should I start planning?
As early as possible in pregnancy.
Is this financial advice?
No. General information only.
Try it in an app
Baby Budget (A$25, one-off): Plan the one-off baby buys, the ongoing costs, and your budget while on parental leave.
Money HQ (A$59, one-off): Your whole money life in one browser app: payday-aware budget, bills calendar, savings goals, debt payoff and net worth.