There is further evidence motherhood is a setback to a woman's career.
Two-thirds of women who take maternity leave do not get promoted.
That's according to a new study providing proof mothers are missing out on a better job to have a family.
The Australian Public Service Commission reveals 65 per cent of women who took maternity leave in 2000 had not received a promotion six years after giving birth.
There's speculation the alarming results are due to women being forced to forgo better jobs to spend time raising their family.
Secretary of Unions NSW, John Roberston says the solution is simple.
“Australia, on the tally board comes 22nd in the world behind countries like China and Iran, who provide up to three months paid maternity leave for women in the workforce.
“It’s time for the Rudd government to step up and provide all working women with paid maternity leave.”