What is the current maternity leave situation in Australia? Do you not have any paid mat leave? In Canada, a mother may take 12 months of mat leave, during which she will receive about 50% of her regular pay (paid by the gov't.) Her position must be held for her during this time. I believe the father may take the same - but between the two they cannot take more then 12 - so they can each take 6, or she can take 8, and him 4, or whatever.
We also receive a "baby bonus" that is given every month until the child is 18, and is based on income (for our family, with 3 kids, its about $230/month). And there is a "child care supplement" which is $100 per month for every child under 6 years old, not based on income, whether you are working or not. It is simply given to anyone with kids under 6, so that they can stay home if they want, or pay for child care.