Hinch changes course on parental leave

Independent senator Derryn Hinch is reconsidering his support for the government's paid parental leave cuts after meeting mothers at a protest.

Senator Hinch had previously stated he'd back the crackdown on "double-dipping" mothers, preventing them from accessing both employer and taxpayer-funded leave schemes, if the start date was delayed.

But he's changed his mind after listening to the concerns of mums who picketed his Melbourne electoral office.

"My staff and I will be working over the weekend on this very important subject and I think the legislation can be improved," he said in a statement.