The Maternity Leave Request Letter is a crucial document used by employees in Australia to formally request parental leave from their employer. It must comply with the Fair Work Act 2009 and the Paid Parental Leave Act 2010, which establish the legal framework for parental leave entitlements in Australia. This document should be submitted at least 10 weeks before the intended start date of the leave, unless circumstances prevent this timing. The letter serves multiple purposes: it formally notifies the employer of the intended leave period, provides essential information for HR planning, and creates a written record of the request. It typically includes the expected due date, proposed leave dates, type of leave being requested (paid or unpaid), and any specific arrangements for the transition of duties. The document is essential for accessing both employer-provided benefits and government parental leave pay schemes.

1. Sender's Details: Full name, position, employee ID/number, department, and contact information

2. Date and Recipient Details: Current date and recipient's details including name, title, department, and company name

3. Subject Line: Clear indication that this is a maternity leave request

4. Expected Due Date: Statement of the expected date of birth/placement of the child

5. Leave Duration Request: Specific start and end dates of the requested maternity leave period

6. Leave Type Specification: Clarification of whether requesting paid parental leave, unpaid parental leave, or a combination

7. Handover Plan: Brief outline of how current responsibilities will be managed during absence

8. Return to Work Statement: Intended date of return to work

9. Closing: Professional closing statement with signature