The dads locked out of paid parental leave

The first children born under Australia's legislated paid parental leave scheme turn 16 this year, and 2026 marks a major milestone for new parents. From July 1, they'll be eligible for a full six months of paid leave.The system has had significant benefits for new parents, but it's not spread evenly. Aussie dads have some of the lowest uptake of paid parental leave in the world. But it's not exactly their fault. Research shows dads desperately want to spend more time with their kids but simply can't afford it under the current system.So what would the absolute gold standard system look like, and how realistic is it?