Is there a point in me going back to work?

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Personally, I think there's something else you need to factor into the equation.

What would it add to your sense of esteem and accomplishment going back to work?

I realise everyone is an individual, but for many, this is what is "priceless" about working outside the home.

Something to ponder :)

Good luck with your decision.

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definitely weigh it all up - this point can be really important!

for us, for DH to return to work now, we would end up worse off. His ability to obtain employment in his normal field doesn't exist any more for health reasons. his skill set (and what he is able to train up in due to the issues he has) leave him with minimal opportunity apart from doing farm labour work - most of which is casual, and a significant drive away. for him to be able to go to work, he needs to work a full day to make it even close to viable when tax, ftb changes, travel expenses etc are taken into account - and we are in a "lucky" position in that we don't have to pay for child care due to family taking DD for us. there is just no guarantee of casual work providing that sort of consistency for us. and because it's an unskilled position, they can essentially get anyone to do the job so there is nowhere to negotiate on wages. Instead, to stop him feeling "stale" and to help that boost of feeling useful outside of the house, he does some volunteer work at lifeline. the positive change in him in the months he has been there is quite significant. he isn't bringing in any money (it probably costs us a bit in travel bus, as Astrid mentioned, he does a lot of "chores" while out, so probably not really that much) but his self esteem is doing a whole lot better

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just to clarify

there is NO "mum's share" of FTB

FTBA is based on combined income of both parents
FTBB is based on the lower income earner and the age of the youngest child

in our case, and many others here on BB, FTBB (if payable) is paid based on the fathers income.

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Thanks for the clarification;)

There have been a few very good points made.
Such as your sense of esteem and accomplishment, retaining work skills and quols.

Well there's a lot to think about, you do have to way up whether it's financially fiable or not, and do the nuts and bolts of it and this may raise a few hairs on a few backs (Link removed by moderator) I filled in the poll and it's interesting the results, anyway lets know how you go?

Interesting blog - not. There is no ability to comment. If putting up a narrow view, then at least allow people to respond. Also it is just full of ads and no content.