Australia’s $915 Centrelink Parenting Payment for 2025 – Key Details and Eligibility

Raising children is expensive, and for single parents or low-income families, it can be especially tough. That’s why the Australian government provides the Centrelink Parenting Payment. In 2025, eligible single parents can receive up to $915 per fortnight, while partnered parents may get up to $718.10. This article will help you know how the payment works, who qualifies, and how you can apply.

Overview

The Parenting Payment is designed to support families who need a financial helping hand while raising children. It allows parents to focus on caregiving without the stress of meeting daily costs on limited income.

Here’s a quick look at the 2025 details:

Criteria	Details
Single Parent Payment	$915 per fortnight
Partnered Parent Payment	$718.10 per fortnight
Child Age Eligibility	Under 16 (or up to 22 if studying full time)
Application Methods	Online via myGov or by phone
Residency Requirement	Australian citizen or resident (12+ months)
Managed by	Services Australia

Definition

The Centrelink Parenting Payment is a government welfare payment for people who are the primary caregiver of a dependent child. It helps manage the extra costs of parenting, especially for those not working full-time or actively job-seeking.

The payment is aimed at creating financial stability for families, particularly those with limited income sources.

Eligibility

To qualify for the Parenting Payment in 2025, you’ll need to meet several conditions:

• Be the main caregiver for a dependent child under 16, or up to 22 if studying
• If you’re partnered, the child must be under 6 years old
• Be an Australian citizen or permanent resident living in Australia for at least 12 months
• Meet the income and assets test limits

Eligibility is not just based on being a parent, but also considers your household’s financial situation and caregiving responsibilities.

Rates

The payment amounts differ based on your relationship status:

• Single parents: up to $915 per fortnight
• Partnered parents: up to $718.10 per fortnight

These amounts may include supplements like the Energy Supplement or Rent Assistance, depending on your living situation.

Payments are reviewed twice a year—in August and September—to account for inflation and other economic changes.

Application

Applying is simple and can be done without needing to visit a Centrelink office. Here’s how:

Online via myGov:

1. Log in or create a myGov account
2. Link it to your Centrelink profile
3. Click on “Make a Claim”
4. Choose the Parenting Payment option
5. Fill out the application and upload documents
6. Submit and wait for approval

If you’re unable to apply online, you can call Centrelink for help or visit a service centre.

Most applications are processed within 14 days, but it’s always best to apply early and submit all your documents on time.

Schedule

Once approved, payments are made fortnightly. Your first payment should arrive roughly two weeks after Centrelink processes your claim.

Make sure to regularly check for changes to payment rates and eligibility rules, especially around August and September when updates usually take effect.

Extras

In addition to the Parenting Payment, you might qualify for other benefits:

• Family Tax Benefit A and B: Helps with general child-raising costs
• Child Care Subsidy: Lowers the cost of approved childcare
• Rent Assistance: Offers additional money to help with rent for eligible families

These payments can add up and offer important support when managed together.

Changes

If your situation changes—like your income increases, or your child becomes ineligible—it’s essential to let Centrelink know immediately. Failing to update your details could result in overpayments, which you may have to repay.

Keeping your records updated also ensures you receive the right amount every fortnight.

Tips

Here are a few ways to stay on top of your Centrelink Parenting Payment:

• Set reminders for reporting income or changes
• Use the Centrelink app to manage your payments on the go
• Check myGov regularly for messages or updates
• Track your eligibility as your child gets older

Planning ahead and keeping informed is the best way to make the most of what’s available to you.

FAQs