Raising kids is tough, especially with 2025’s rising costs for food, rent, and childcare. Thankfully, Australia’s Parenting Payment is stepping up, offering single parents up to $1,055.90 every two weeks starting September 20, 2025, including a $16.20 supplement. 13 This boost helps low-income families stay afloat. Here’s how it works, who qualifies, and how to claim it.
What Is the Parenting Payment?
The Parenting Payment is a Centrelink lifeline for low-income parents, providing fortnightly cash to cover essentials like groceries, rent, and school supplies. 0 Unlike one-off payments, it’s ongoing, deposited directly into your bank account every two weeks. The 2025 increase reflects inflation, ensuring support keeps pace with costs. 12
2025 Payment Rates
The September 20, 2025, indexation lifts rates for single and partnered parents. 13 Here’s the maximum fortnightly breakdown:
| Category | Base Payment | Supplement | Total Fortnightly |
|---|---|---|---|
| Single Parent | $1,039.70 | $16.20 | $1,055.90 |
| Partnered Parent (each) | Varies | Included | $672.50 (combined $1,345.00) |
Partnered rates depend on joint income, and extras like Rent Assistance ($188.20 max) may apply. 17
Who Qualifies for the Parenting Payment?
Eligibility focuses on your role as a parent and financial situation:
- Residency: Be an Australian resident, living in Australia when applying. 0
- Child’s Age: Single parents, youngest child under 8; partnered parents, under 6. 0
- Primary Carer: You must be the main caregiver. 0
- Income Test: Singles earn under $218 fortnightly, couples under $380 combined for full payment; partial payments taper off. 3
- Assets Test: Limits are $321,750 (single homeowner) or $482,500 (couple); higher for non-homeowners. 2
- Activity Rules: Some parents (e.g., with older kids) may need to job search or study. 0
How to Apply or Update Your Claim
New to Parenting Payment? Apply via myGov:
- Link Centrelink to your myGov account.
- Gather ID, child’s birth certificate, income, and asset details.
- Complete the Parenting Payment claim form online.
- Submit with documents—track progress in myGov. 0
Already receiving it? Update income, bank details, or caregiving changes promptly to avoid disruptions. Call 136 150 for help or visit a Centrelink office. 0
How Payments Are Delivered
Payments land in your bank account every two weeks, even on holidays. 0 Check your schedule via myGov or the Express Plus Centrelink app. Payments are taxable, but tax offsets often reduce the burden for low-income families. 0
Avoid These Application Pitfalls
Delays can happen if you:
- Enter wrong bank details.
- Miss income or asset updates.
- Skip required documents (e.g., child’s birth certificate).
- Ignore activity requirements. 0
Submit everything accurately to get payments on time.
Why This Boost Matters
With rent, groceries, and childcare costs soaring, the $1,055.90 fortnightly payment gives single parents breathing room. 13 It’s part of a broader 2025 strategy, including pension boosts and energy rebates, to ease family pressures. 12 This steady income lets parents focus on kids, not just bills.
FAQs
What is the Parenting Payment in 2025?
A fortnightly Centrelink payment, up to $1,055.90 for single parents, to cover essentials. 13
Who qualifies for the Parenting Payment?
Australian residents caring for a child under 8 (singles) or 6 (partnered), passing income/assets tests. 0
When does the payment increase start?
September 20, 2025, with automatic updates for eligible recipients. 12
How do I apply for Parenting Payment?
Apply via myGov with ID, child’s birth certificate, and financial details. 0
Can partnered parents get the payment?
Yes, if their youngest child is under 6 and household income is below $380 fortnightly. 0