Medibank recognised as Australia's Best Workplace for dads

Medibank is proud to be recognised as the number one workplace for dads after analysis of Australia’s largest 500 companies by website Direct Advice for Dads and research firm CoreData.

Using information from the Workplace Gender Equality Agency, the panel analysed these leading companies, researching parental leave policies available to dads, the percentage of employees who used them – together with the availability of flexible working, and other benefits.

In recognising that every parent should have the same opportunity to play an active role in their child’s early life, Medibank launched ‘FamilyFLEX’ in March 2018.

All eligible prospective parents, regardless of whether they’re the primary or secondary carer, are able to take 14 weeks of paid leave (28-weeks at half pay) within the first 24 months of birth or adoption. This includes taking leave at the same time as their partner. This significant change sees Medibank leading the way nationally in encouraging equal and shared parenting responsibilities.

It’s also flexible - parents can choose to take their 14 weeks leave across two different periods. Under the previous policy, the primary carer would be eligible for 14 weeks paid leave in one block, and the secondary carer could take two weeks of paid leave.

Medibank Group Executive of People & Culture Kylie Bishop said the reality is all families and new babies are different.

“When Medibank expanded FamilyFLEX and removed the titles of primary and secondary carer, the response from soon-to-be-dads was very positive. Many men haven’t felt comfortable asking for parental leave at all, feeling it will jeopardise their career prospects. We wanted to change this corporate perception. It’s a win for families if care is shared amongst both parents,” Ms Bishop said.

Medibank Brand Manager James Timms and partner Lakshani are expecting their first child, a daughter, within weeks. He plans to take off three weeks when she’s born, and then another 11 weeks mid next year.

“To spend up to 14 precious weeks with my family, fully paid, is just another amazing benefit of working for Medibank. Being new parents, it will help us immensely during this exciting time. For the last five weeks of parental leave, I’ll be taking the lead while my wife goes back to work,” said Mr Timms.

Medibank also provides external and confidential executive coaching to all new parents, ensuring they can still invest in their career whilst on leave.