The Guides to Social Policy Law is a collection of publications designed to assist decision makers administering social policy law. The information contained in this publication is intended only as a guide to relevant legislation/policy. The information is accurate as at the date listed at the bottom of the page, but may be subject to change. To discuss individual circumstances please contact Services Australia.

3.11.5.40 Pre & post natal exemptions

Pre & post natal exemptions

A pregnant person is exempt from mutual obligation requirements (1.1.M.160) from 6 weeks before the date they are expected to give birth until 6 weeks following the birth of the child. These exemptions apply even if the baby is stillborn or placed for adoption.

In addition, from 3 months before the date they are expected to give birth, they are not required to undertake job search, although they must continue to satisfy requirements by undertaking another suitable activity.

If at any other time during pregnancy a person is unable to meet their requirements because of pregnancy-related medical problems, they should apply for an incapacity exemption.

Act reference: SS(Admin)Act section 40Q Pre-natal and post-natal relief

ParentsNext participants

ParentsNext (3.11.11) participants who are expecting a child are not required to participate from 6 weeks before the expected date of birth of a child until their child is 9 months old. Participants can organise this with Services Australia or their ParentsNext provider.

During the first 7 months of pregnancy, a pregnant ParentsNext participant is encouraged to continue to participate in ParentsNext. However, ParentsNext providers must take into consideration the fact that a participant is pregnant when determining the most appropriate activities for their participation plan.

If at any time during the first 7 months of pregnancy a ParentsNext participant is unable to participate because of pregnancy-related medical problems, they may apply for an exemption from Services Australia or their ParentsNext provider. More information about exemptions for ParentsNext participants is at 3.11.5.50.

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