If you are pregnant, you can start your unpaid parental leave up to 6 weeks before your due date. If you would like to begin your leave sooner then it is possible to arrange this with your employer.
If you are not giving birth, such as in the case of a partner or an adoption, then your leave will commence on the date of birth or placement of the child. Payment under the paid parental leave scheme does not commence until after the child has been born.