LUNA'S LAW
Because Two Days Is Not Enough
No Parent Should Have to Return to Work While Still Trying to Survive the Loss of Their Child
Every year, hundreds of Australian families experience the unimaginable loss of a child.
In the days and weeks that follow, parents are faced with funeral arrangements, police and coronial investigations, financial pressures, counselling appointments, caring for surviving children and the overwhelming reality of learning how to live with a loss that will remain with them forever.
Yet under Australia's current workplace laws, many bereaved parents are entitled to just two days of compassionate leave.
Luna's Law seeks to change that.
Why Luna's Law Matters
The death of a child is one of the most devastating experiences a parent can endure.
Research demonstrates that bereaved parents experience significantly elevated risks of suicide, depression, physical illness and relationship breakdown compared with non-bereaved parents.
Despite this, Australia currently provides no dedicated Parental Bereavement Leave entitlement following the death of a dependent child.
Luna's Law seeks to establish meaningful workplace protections that recognise the unique and lifelong impact of child loss.
Because grief does not end after a funeral.
And recovery cannot be measured in days.
Luna's Story
Luna Capri Matenga was a bright, affectionate and spirited little girl who brought joy to everyone she met.
As the first grandchild in a large and loving family, Luna changed all of our lives. She was intelligent, curious, adventurous and wonderfully cheeky. She had a remarkable ability to make people feel loved, valued and seen.
On 22 December 2020, just three days before Christmas, Luna was tragically killed in a pedestrian accident at only three and a half years of age.
In the aftermath of her death, our family experienced firsthand the challenges faced by bereaved parents while navigating profound grief, financial pressures and workplace obligations.
Luna's Law was created in her honour and in recognition of every family who has faced the unimaginable loss of a child.
Our Vision
Luna's Law seeks to establish a nationally protected Parental Bereavement Leave entitlement following the death of a dependent child under 18 years of age.
The proposal includes a staged pathway for reform and calls on government, employers, unions, health professionals and the broader community to work together to ensure bereaved parents are given the time and support they need.
Parents do not cease to be parents when their child dies.
How You Can Help
Read the White Paper
Read the full Luna's Law White Paper, including research, financial modelling and recommendations for reform.
Stay Informed
Join the Luna's Law community and receive updates on campaign progress, parliamentary engagement and opportunities to support reform.
Share Your Voice
Have you experienced child loss?
Are you a healthcare professional, employer, educator or community member who believes bereaved families deserve better support?
We invite you to share your experience, perspective or support for Luna's Law.
The Question
We know support helps.
We know counselling helps.
We know early intervention helps.
The question is not whether parents need support after the death of a child.
The question is whether they are given enough time to access it.