A review of the domestic and international research and policy literature was conducted to prepare a summary of the state of knowledge on the impacts of parental leave policies on a range of policy objectives. The paper provides an up to date summary of policy instruments in selected countries and identifies significant gaps in the research on parental leave. While a relatively robust body of research and analysis is available on employment participation responses to policy change, little information is available on the impacts of parental leave policies on child development, family functioning or employers.