Background: took 6 months leave without pay from a govt dept, DH was supposed to be transferred to Melbourne, due to a stuff-up by my DH's x-boss it didn't happen (he didn't want to put the verbal offer down on paper) - but as I'd already taken my leave, I took it as an opportunity to see what is out there in the "real world", with the view of maybe not going back to govt.

I got a new job at the start of this month - good career opportunities, money is the same (at the moment) and the hours are more.

DH & I want to start a family in the next 12 months. This new position only gives you 1 month paid maternity leave, whereas govt is 12 weeks full-pay or 24 weeks half pay.

DH & I came to the conclusion today that I will need to go back to my govt job at the end of my LWOP period. It is a pretty cushie job, but can be stressful at times, but I know I can take a step back and palm off some of my work when I fall pregnant - they've currently got 1 full time & 2 others doing my job - so at least they've realised my job is more than one persons worth.

I'm going to have to make the definite decision in about 4 months time, so that the paperwork can go into my old job, letting them know I'll be back in July.

DH & I want to be pregnant and have a family together, much as I love my new job - I'd rather the security (and the money) of maternity leave with my old job.

I've done the "pros" and "cons" list for both jobs and the old job far outweighs this new job.