Managing life as a single parent is a demanding role. Add in the responsibilities of paid work, the expense of childcare, and the need to take care of yourself, and the challenge grows even bigger. You may find yourself questioning if returning to work is financially viable, searching for ways to carve out “me-time,” or wondering about your entitlements as an employee. Don’t worry, you’re not alone. Below is a comprehensive guide to help you tackle these areas and find some balance in your life.
Does Returning to Work Make Financial Sense?
For single parents, childcare expenses can take a significant chunk out of your income, particularly when you’re the sole provider. However, there are government subsidies and support programs designed to lighten the load. These include the Parenting Payment, the Child Care Subsidy (CCS), and the Family Tax Benefit (FTB), all of which can help offset the costs of raising children and paying for care.
Eligibility for these programs varies depending on factors like your income, hours of employment, and other personal circumstances. For instance, the Parenting Payment has specific income thresholds based on the number of children you have. If your income surpasses these thresholds, your payment will gradually decrease. For every dollar earned above the limit, your payment may reduce by a set amount, such as 40 cents on the dollar.
Ultimately, it’s worthwhile to evaluate the financial implications of returning to work by comparing your potential income to the expenses of childcare and the support you might receive through these programs.
Benefits Beyond the Paycheck
While earning money is essential, work can also offer benefits that go beyond financial gain. A job provides structure, a sense of purpose, and opportunities to connect with others. It may also open doors to career growth and long-term financial security, all of which can be empowering for single parents.
If full-time employment isn’t an immediate option for you, consider pursuing further education or skills training. Expanding your qualifications through study not only enhances your career prospects but can also be deeply fulfilling. Financial assistance, such as Austudy, may be available for eligible students to help ease the cost of tuition and living expenses.
Additionally, volunteering can be a rewarding activity if you find some extra time in your schedule. Beyond the personal satisfaction of contributing to a community cause, volunteering can help you build a professional network, acquire new skills, and explore employment opportunities in the process.
Flexible Work Options and Parental Leave for Single Parents
The standard nine-to-five might not suit your life as a single parent, but that doesn’t mean you’re out of options. Flexible work arrangements can provide the balance you need.
Your Right to Flexible Work Arrangements
All employees in Australia, regardless of relationship status, can request flexible working conditions if they’ve been with the same employer for at least a year. Flexibility could mean working remotely, shifting your start and finish times, job-sharing, or even compressing your workweek into fewer days.
To initiate this process, have an open discussion with your employer. Submit a written request outlining your proposed arrangement, its benefits for both you and your workplace, and how it would work in practice. Be prepared to negotiate if necessary. While employers are required to seriously consider your request, they can refuse it if they can establish valid business reasons. If you think a rejection is unfair, organisations like Fair Work Australia can provide advice.
Parental Leave Entitlements
Single parents are entitled to take up to 12 months of unpaid parental leave following the birth or adoption of a child, provided they’ve worked with their employer for at least a year. If needed, you may request an additional 12 months, though approval is not guaranteed.
Financial support is also available through the government’s Parental Leave Pay scheme, which can provide up to 20 weeks of payments under certain conditions. To qualify, you’ll need to meet an income test and prove you’re the primary caregiver for the child.
Prioritising Your Wellbeing
It’s easy to push your own needs to the backburner when you’re raising a child. However, looking after yourself is crucial to sustaining your ability to care for your family. Here are some practical tips to nurture your wellbeing:
- Focus on self-care by prioritising exercise, eating well, and getting enough sleep.
- Set boundaries. Learn to say no to commitments that drain your energy.
- Build a support network of friends, family, or other single parents who understand your challenges.
- Be flexible. Life as a single parent involves plenty of adjustments, so approach situations with an open mind.
- Seek professional support when needed, whether it’s financial guidance, emotional help, or childcare assistance.
Finding a balance between work, parenting, and self-care as a single parent isn’t easy, but it’s achievable with the resources and rights available to you. By exploring flexible working conditions, taking advantage of government support, and focusing on your personal wellbeing, you can create a more manageable and fulfilling life.
