Arguably the opinion most worth listening to is that of parents.

Warrnambool mother Rebecca Ryan featured in today’s edition of The Standard discusses how she balances work with her young family.

With the birth of both children, Mrs Ryan was able to take three months paid maternity leave from her employer along with the 18 weeks federal government leave.

This ensured 12 months at home with both babies.

In May, Treasurer Joe Hockey announced almost 80,000 new mothers would lose some or all of their government parental leave payments.

The move would see half of new mothers lose access to the full $11,500 available under the current scheme from July 2016.

The scheme, introduced by the Gillard government four years ago, provided 18 weeks of leave at the minimum wage to primary care givers earning $150,000 a year or less.

However, the reforms by the Abbott government will save $1 billion over the coming four years at a time when savings are a priority.

Getting the balance right is not an easy task but it is essential for Australia’s future growth.

Paid parental leave will always be an expensive policy to undertake but a number of European nations are far ahead of where Australia is placed.

All mums and dads deserve a fair go.