THE Families Minister, Jenny Macklin, has accused the opposition of trying to wreck a historic social change for women - paid parental leave - at the 11th hour, by seeking changes in the last week of Parliament, just six weeks out from its start date.

A private member's bill from the opposition's spokesman on small business, Bruce Billson, will seek to have Centrelink permanently administer payment of the government benefit, not employers.

Ms Macklin said 2000 women due to give birth in January had already applied for the scheme, and 500 employers had signed up, so a smooth start was vital.

''The biggest danger we see is people not understanding their rights and obligations. We want mothers to know they will receive the money. I don't want any employer or employee confused,'' she said. A government working group was the best forum to discuss business concerns with the scheme, not wildcat bills in the unpredictable arena of minority government, she said.

http://www.smh.com.au/nsw/opposition-standing-in-way-of-mothers-payments-says-macklin-20101121-182mo.html

Gus: I did not expect less from Tony and his budgies....