Families with new born babies can expect an increase in parental leave payments from 1 July this year.

The maximum amount of parental leave payment for eligible employees will increase from $475.16 to $488.17 a week.

The minimum amount of parental leave payment for self-employed persons will also increase, from $135.00 to $137.50 a week.

Under the Parental Leave and Employment Protection Act 1987, parents eligible for the scheme are entitled to up to 14 weeks paid leave at a rate calculated on the basis of their average weekly earnings.

The maximum rate is reviewed every year to account for any increase in average weekly earnings.

For more information about Paid Parental Leave, calculating entitlements and forms and sample letters visit the Ministry of Business Innovation and Employment website