Public servants are expected to embrace Tony Abbott's paid parental leave scheme in "overwhelming numbers", according to the Coalition.

The prediction comes despite a crackdown on "double-dipping" by state and federal employees forming a key financial offset of Mr Abbott's scheme.

Public servants leave plan. Credit:Louise Kennerley

Under a Coalition government, public sector workers would be offered a choice; to take their parental leave under Mr Abbott's scheme or to stay with their employer's plan.

The opposition is offering 26 weeks at full pay, with an income cut-off of $150,000, compared with the Australian Public Service's mandated offer of 52 weeks maternity leave with 14 weeks paid at the employee's full salary with no upper pay limit.