18 weeks paid maternity leave

The Federal Government has announced plans for 18 weeks paid maternity leave. It is to kick off from 1 January 2011. This 18 weeks will be paid at the Federal Minimum Wage. It is a good start, however I question why it will take so long to implement. It is good to see a government that is actually listening to the Productivity Commission. The ACTU looks rather stupid for only pushing for 14 weeks paid leave. Those unions that pushed for more have been vindicated in their positions.