Employment, Leave & Budgeting

Did anyone else have a terrible dreaded feeling every time you thought about telling your work you were going to have a baby? I know I did! I was freaking out!
When I think back, I actually have no idea why I was so worried about it.. I guess I felt like I was  putting my employer out by them having to find someone to cover me for the next 12 months (or however long you decide to take leave for).

Saying that, once it was all out in the open - everyone was very happy for me! And I had no idea why I was so nervous about it. A baby is a wonderful thing.. and if anyone has a bad reaction, that's their problem! I mean, really? Come on. It's a baby!

The first thing you should be doing is checking your employment contract to see what you are entitled to. Best to do this before you speak to your employer to prepare yourself.
Some employers continue to pay your wage for a certain amount of time, and some don't. Have a thorough read through your contract, or have a chat to your HR department about it if you're unsure.

The next step is to check what you are entitled to from the government (although, this is subject to change with the budget). You may be eligible for more than 1 payment.

Here are some useful links from Human Services that will help guide you;
http://www.humanservices.gov.au/customer/services/centrelink/parental-leave-pay
http://www.humanservices.gov.au/customer/subjects/having-a-baby

After you have done this, you should be able to get a realistic budget together. Figure out what your current expenses are, what your partners are and how much you pay for the non-negotiable things every month. Then plan out what you are buying that you can cut down on. Remember, babies cost a lot of money (like seriously.. A LOT - I had no idea??).
Do some research & get your budget together. This will help you decide how long you will be able to afford to take off.

There are extra things you will need to consider like;

• Medical Expenses (out of pocket)
• Nursery Items (cot, bedding, car seats, prams etc..)
• Baby Items (clothing, nappies etc..)
• Maternity Clothes
• The list goes on and on and on!

It sounds really daunting, but it planning the future is fun! If you can get yourself organised, there will be no need to stress when the baby comes, and you can put all your energy and concentration into your little bundle of joy!