Paid parental leave back for debate

The federal government has resurrected its plan to stop parental leave "double dipping" more than six months after it was shelved.

Social Services Minister Christian Porter on Thursday introduced to parliament its "fairer" paid parental leave bill, which prevents women claiming leave from both the government and their employer.

The legislation was put to parliament in June 2015 but expired in April after it was clear there would not be enough support.

Working mothers who do not have access to an employer-paid scheme will be eligible for a full 18 weeks of taxpayer-funded leave.

Those who get only some weeks of paid leave from their employer will be able to access government payments to make up a total of 18 weeks.

Mr Porter said placing such limits would make the scheme fairer.