Raising kids alone is no small feat, with costs like school supplies, rent, and bills piling up fast. Centrelink’s Parenting Payment is a lifeline for single parents, and in 2025, it’s getting a boost. Starting September 20, 2025, single parents can expect $1,039.70 per fortnight, up $15.70. Here’s your guide to the new rates, eligibility, payment dates, and how this support helps you keep going.
What Is the Parenting Payment?
Centrelink’s Parenting Payment supports single parents and some partnered parents caring for young children. It’s designed to ease financial stress, covering essentials like groceries, utilities, or school fees. The 2025 increase ensures this payment keeps pace with rising living costs, offering reliable income for families doing it tough.
For single parents, this boost is a small but meaningful step toward financial stability.
New Parenting Payment Rates for 2025
From September 20, 2025, the base rate for single parents rises to $998.20 per fortnight, with additional supplements bringing the total to $1,039.70. Partnered parents see a smaller increase, with a base rate of $726.50.
2025 Parenting Payment Rates
| Category | Base Rate | Supplements | Total Fortnightly | Increase |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Single (under/over pension age) | $998.20 | $41.50 | $1,039.70 | $15.70 |
| Partnered (under/over pension age) | $726.50 | Varies | Varies | $11.40 |
Supplements include a $29.50 Pension Supplement and a $12.00 Energy Supplement for eligible recipients.
Who Qualifies for the Parenting Payment?
To receive the Parenting Payment in 2025, you must meet specific criteria:
Eligibility Criteria
- Single Parents: Care for a child under 14 and be the primary carer.
- Partnered Parents: Care for a child under 14, with one partner as the main earner.
- Residency: Be an Australian resident for at least 2 years.
- Income Test: Earn less than $224.60 per fortnight for the full payment; payments cut off at $2,840.85.
- Asset Test: Varies by homeownership and family status.
- Mutual Obligations: Participate in activities like job searches or training, depending on your child’s age.
Use Services Australia’s online calculator to check eligibility.
When Are Payments Made?
The new rates start September 20, 2025, with payments deposited fortnightly, typically on Tuesdays or Thursdays. Current recipients get the increase automatically, while new applicants need to apply through Services Australia.
Check your MyGov account or the Express Plus Centrelink app for exact payment dates, as holidays may cause slight shifts.
How to Apply for the Parenting Payment
If you’re not yet receiving the payment, here’s how to apply:
- Check Eligibility: Confirm you meet residency, income, and child age requirements.
- Gather Documents: Prepare ID, income details, and proof of your child’s age.
- Apply Online: Submit your claim via MyGov or www.servicesaustralia.gov.au.
- Upload Files: Provide documents securely through MyGov.
- Track Progress: Monitor your application status online.
Keep your income and family details updated to avoid overpayments or delays.
Why the Parenting Payment Matters
The $1,039.70 fortnightly payment won’t cover every expense, but it’s a consistent boost for single parents. That extra $15.70 per fortnight—$408 annually—can mean a week’s groceries, a school excursion, or part of a power bill. It’s about giving parents breathing room to focus on their kids, not just finances.
This increase, tied to Centrelink’s twice-yearly indexation, ensures payments stay relevant as costs rise.
Tips to Maximize Your Payment
To make the most of the Parenting Payment:
- Report Changes: Update Centrelink on income, address, or child custody changes immediately.
- Meet Obligations: Complete required activities like job searches to maintain eligibility.
- Check Supplements: Confirm you’re getting the Pension and Energy Supplements.
- Use MyGov: Track payments and updates easily online.
Staying proactive keeps your payments smooth and secure.
FAQs About Centrelink’s 2025 Parenting Payment
What is the new Parenting Payment rate for 2025?
Single parents receive $1,039.70 per fortnight ($998.20 base + $41.50 supplements), starting September 20, 2025.
Who qualifies for the Parenting Payment?
Single parents with a child under 14, or partnered parents with one main earner, meeting residency and income tests.
When do the new rates start?
September 20, 2025, with fortnightly payments on Tuesdays or Thursdays.
Do I need to apply for the increase?
No, current recipients get the boost automatically; new applicants apply via MyGov.
What happens if I earn too much?
Payments reduce if you earn over $224.60 per fortnight and stop at $2,840.85.