Barnaby Joyce takes extended leave

Former Deputy Prime Minister Barnaby Joyce has been granted extended leave in the wake of his relationship scandal.

Mr Joyce was granted leave until the end of June, but won't be needed back at parliament until August, after the Winter break, AAP understands.

Mr Joyce stood down as Nationals leader in February after revelations of his relationship with former staffer Vikki Campion, who has since given birth to their son.