Raising children in today’s economy can be costly, especially for single parents and low-income families. Fortunately, the Australian government’s Centrelink Parenting Payment offers financial relief.
In 2025, eligible single parents can receive up to $915 per fortnight, while partnered parents may receive up to $718.10. Here’s everything you need to know—from eligibility and rates to application.
What Is the Parenting Payment?
The Parenting Payment is designed for individuals who are the primary caregivers of dependent children. It offers crucial financial support to help families manage the costs of raising children without working full-time or requiring flexibility for caregiving duties.
2025 Payment Summary
| Criteria | Details |
|---|---|
| Single Parent Rate | Up to $915 per fortnight |
| Partnered Parent Rate | Up to $718.10 per fortnight |
| Child Age Eligibility | Under 16; up to 22 if full‑time student |
| Citizenship Requirement | Australian citizen or resident for at least 12 months |
| Application Methods | Online (myGov), phone, or Service Centre |
| Managed By | Services Australia |
Who Qualifies?
To receive the Parenting Payment, you must meet all the following:
- Be the primary caregiver of a dependent child:
- For single parents: child under 16 years (or up to 22 if studying full-time).
- For partnered parents: child under 6 years.
- Be an Australian citizen or permanent resident with at least 12 months residency.
- Pass the income and assets tests set by Centrelink.
- Fulfill requirements set under social security law regarding relationship status and residency.
2025 Payment Rates
- Single Parents: Up to $915 per fortnight, including applicable supplements (e.g., Energy Supplement, Rent Assistance).
- Partnered Parents: Up to $718.10 per fortnight.
- Payments are updated twice a year (August and September) to reflect inflation and policy adjustments.
How to Apply
You can apply easily without visiting an office:
- Log in (or create) your myGov account.
- Link it to your Centrelink profile.
- Go to “Make a Claim” and select Parenting Payment.
- Fill in required details and attach supporting documents.
- Submit and await outcome—applications are typically processed within 14 days.
Alternative options: You can also apply via phone or at a Service Centre if you require assistance.
Payment Timeline
Once approved, payments are made fortnightly. You can expect your first payment within approximately two weeks of approval. It’s important to:
- Keep track of reporting periods, especially changes in income or child circumstances.
- Monitor myGov for updates or messages from Centrelink.
Extra Benefits You Might Be Eligible For
Beyond the Parenting Payment, you may also qualify for additional support:
- Family Tax Benefit A & B
- Child Care Subsidy
- Rent Assistance
These programs can significantly help with broader household expenses.
What to Do If Your Situation Changes
You must report any changes, such as:
- Income increases
- Your partner’s living arrangements
- Child aging out of eligibility (turns 16 or finishes education)
Neglecting to inform Centrelink could lead to overpayments, which you’ll be required to repay.
Tips for Parents
- Set reminders to lodge required income or relationship updates.
- Use the Centrelink App to track payments and receive alerts.
- Check myGov notifications regularly.
- Plan for eligibility changes as your child gets older—and reassess support needs periodically.
The Centrelink Parenting Payment provides crucial financial support—up to $915 per fortnight for single parents—helping to ease the burden of raising children on limited income.
With clear eligibility criteria, easy online application, and coordinated support programs, single- and partnered-parent families can access essential aid.
Staying informed, reporting changes promptly, and utilizing available resources will ensure you receive the full support you’re entitled to.
FAQs
Can partnered parents claim the full $915 per fortnight?
No, only single parents qualify for the $915 rate. Partnered parents are eligible for up to $718.10 per fortnight.
What age of child makes a parent eligible?
Single parents can claim if their child is under 16 (or up to 22 if enrolled full-time). Partnered parents qualify if their child is under 6.
How long does Centrelink take to process applications?
Most applications are processed within 14 days, but submitting complete documentation and applying early helps ensure faster approval.