Summary Overview
And if you are back to work and running out of caring days to claim - consider claiming on weekends or allocating days to your partner.
Timing is everything when claiming Parental Leave Pay. You can submit your claim up to 3 months before your baby's expected birth date. If you apply after the birth, you have up to 1 year (52 weeks) to submit your claim. Failing to apply within this 1-year window will result in forfeiting some or all of your entitlement days.
Key Requirements:
- ✓ Can apply up to 90 days before the expected birth or adoption.
- ✓ Must apply within 52 weeks of the birth to get the full entitlement.
- ✓ Must confirm the birth with Centrelink within 4 weeks of delivery to start payments.
Common Misconceptions
Myth
"I can apply anytime within two years."
Reality
You must submit your claim within 1 year of birth. The 2-year window is only for taking the flexible days after you have successfully claimed.
Myth
"Centrelink automatically starts payments once I apply."
Reality
Payments will not start until you upload proof of birth (birth certificate or hospital declaration) and confirm the date.
Practical Examples
Scenario
Emma has a baby on 10 October 2025. She forgets to apply until 15 November 2026 (13 months later).
Outcome
Emma forfeits her entire PPL entitlement.
Because she applied after the 12-month post-birth deadline, she is no longer eligible to claim.
Action Checklist
-
Pre-apply at 30 weeks — Submit your claim online around 30 weeks pregnant to get the administrative checks completed early.
-
Confirm birth immediately — Upload the Newborn Child Declaration form from the hospital to myGov as soon as your baby is born.