Paternity Policy

At the University of Newcastle, we recognise that parenting is a shared responsibility. To support the full participation of women in education and employment, we actively encourage and enable non-gestational parents — including fathers and partners — to take on meaningful childcare duties from the outset.

Under our Balancing Family / Carer Responsibilities with Work and Study Policy (2024), which came into effect on 23 May 2023 and will be reviewed in May 2026, we provide a clear framework of support for all parenting roles, not just gestational ones.

Here’s how we support shared parenting and paternity:

Inclusive Recognition of Parental Roles

We recognise that families are diverse. Our policy applies equally to all parents, regardless of gender, marital status, or family structure, and includes same-sex, de facto, and culturally diverse family arrangements. We explicitly support shared caregiving, encouraging non-gestational parents to participate equally in raising children.

Leave and Flexible Work Options for Non-Gestational Parents

To facilitate equal parenting, we offer a suite of supportive provisions for staff under enterprise agreements and contracts, including:

  • Partner leave, including for adoption and surrogacy;
  • Parental leave entitlements for non-gestational parents;
  • Flexible working arrangements such as part-time hours, flex-time, and remote work;
  • Job sharing and phased return-to-work plans that accommodate ongoing parental responsibilities.

These arrangements empower non-gestational parents to be fully involved in early childcare, reducing the pressure on gestational parents and promoting a more equitable division of labour at home and in the workplace.

Facilities and Practical Support

To make parenting manageable, we offer:

  • High-quality, accessible childcare services — including three centres on our Callaghan campus and one at Ourimbah;
  • Parent Rooms and breastfeeding-friendly spaces available to all parents, regardless of gestational status;
  • Child-friendly library facilities such as Carers and Kids Rooms, where parents can supervise their children while working or studying.

Cultural Sensitivity and Gender Equity

Our approach acknowledges and respects cultural variations in family roles, while reinforcing the importance of shared caregiving across all genders. We are committed to fostering a workplace and learning environment where all parents feel equally supported in their family responsibilities.

By embedding these principles into our policies and day-to-day practices, the University of Newcastle ensures that non-gestational parents are empowered to take an active role in childcare. This not only promotes gender equity at home but directly supports women’s participation in the workforce and in academic life.