Pauline Hanson’s stance on paid parental leave and childcare could turn clock back by decades, economists warn

Pauline Hanson's proposed changes to paid parental leave and childcare could significantly regress progress for working mothers and exacerbate gender inequality, according to economists. During an address at the National Press Club on Wednesday, the One Nation leader indicated that women should not receive payment from their employers while on maternity leave. Hanson also suggested substantial alterations to the childcare system and advocated for family income splitting, a policy intended to encourage a parent to remain at home with children. Economists warn that these policies could negatively impact national productivity and reverse decades of advancement in gender equality in the workforce. The proposed income splitting, in particular, is seen as a disincentive for women's participation in paid employment. These potential policy shifts have raised concerns among economic experts about the long-term implications for Australia's economy and social progress.