New dads at greater risk of an accident

University research shows fathers with newborn children are often a hazard at work and on the roads, prompting renewed calls for compulsory paternity leave.

The joint research from Southern Cross and Griffith universities shows fathers with newborns were 26 per cent more likely to have a near-miss while driving.

The research found men in early fatherhood were 36 per cent more likely to narrowly avoid an accident at work.

SCU senior lecturer Gary Mellor said the study of nearly 250 men with newborns aged under three months showed fatigue worsened over time.

Some workplace agreements ensure paternity leave but other men have to dip into their annual leave for time off.

United Voice urged parliamentary support for the Federal Government's proposed partner's leave, which is yet to pass through Parliament.

"It's a health and safety issue, both physically, with increased risk of work-related injuries, and the psychological toll on all concerned," assistant union secretary Kelly Shay said.

New father Ben Hamilton, of Karrinyup, supported the introduction of two weeks compulsory paternity leave. He had to take a week of annual leave to supplement one week of paternity leave.