The Australian Government continues to provide Parenting Payment in 2025 as a critical financial lifeline for eligible parents and carers raising young children.
With the cost of living rising, the support—worth up to $1,040.50 for single parents and $715.10 for partnered parents fortnightly—helps reduce financial pressure for families across the country.
If you’re the primary caregiver of a young child and meet the Services Australia criteria, you may qualify for this fortnightly Centrelink payment.
Here’s everything you need to know about the $915 Parenting Payment (the general average amount many families receive after income testing), including eligibility, payment breakdowns, and the step-by-step application process.
Parenting Payment Overview 2025
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Maximum Payment | $1,040.50 (single), $715.10 (partnered), $836.50 (partnered separated) |
| Child Age Eligibility | Under 14 (single parent), under 6 (partnered parent) |
| Income Threshold | Reduces after $220.60/fortnight (single), phases out completely at $2,796.35 |
| Application Method | Online via myGov, linked to Centrelink |
| Additional Support | May include Energy Supplement and Rent Assistance |
Who Qualifies for Parenting Payment?
To be eligible for Parenting Payment in 2025, you must meet the following criteria:
1. Primary Carer
You must be the principal carer responsible for day-to-day child care.
2. Child Age Limits
- Single parents: Child must be under 14 years old
- Partnered parents: Child must be under 6 years old
3. Residency Requirements
You must be an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or on an eligible visa, and live in Australia.
4. Income and Assets Test
Payments reduce once income exceeds $220.60 per fortnight. They cease when income reaches $2,796.35 per fortnight (for single parents). Assets are also assessed.
5. Mutual Obligation Requirements
You may be asked to:
- Participate in job search activities
- Attend training or education programs
- Join community participation projects
2025 Parenting Payment Rates
| Status | Base Fortnightly Rate | Pension Supplement | Total Fortnightly Payment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Single Parent | $1,011.50 | $29.00 | $1,040.50 |
| Partnered Parent | $715.10 | Not applicable | $715.10 |
| Separated Partner (special) | $836.50 | Not applicable | $836.50 |
Rates are indexed in March and September each year to keep up with inflation.
How to Apply for Parenting Payment
Step-by-Step Process:
- Create or log in to your myGov account
- Link Centrelink if you haven’t already
- Start the Parenting Payment application
- Upload documents such as:
- Proof of identity
- Income and asset statements
- Child care details
- Submit your application and await Centrelink’s review
- Check notifications regularly for updates or requests for more info
Tip: Start early. Processing may take several weeks.
Practical Examples
Example 1: Single Parent
Sarah, a single mother of two, earns $400 a fortnight from part-time work. After income testing, she receives about $915 per fortnight, plus Rent Assistance, helping her cover essential expenses.
Example 2: Partnered Parent
Tom and Lisa have a 5-year-old child. Lisa applies for the Parenting Payment while Tom works full-time. Due to Tom’s income exceeding the partnered threshold, Lisa’s application is not approved.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Failing to report income changes promptly
- Assuming both parents can receive payments (only one can)
- Missing mutual obligation activities (may suspend payment)
- Forgetting to review eligibility as children age
The $915 Parenting Payment (average amount after income tests) continues to be a key government support program for Australian families in 2025.
Whether you’re a single parent caring for a child under 14 or part of a couple with a child under 6, this support can provide real relief.
Make sure you meet the eligibility, submit your application online via myGov, and keep your circumstances updated to receive the right amount. Don’t forget to explore additional support like Rent Assistance and Family Tax Benefits to maximize your household’s financial wellbeing.
FAQs
Can I get Parenting Payment if my child is over 14?
No. Single parents are only eligible if the youngest child is under 14. For partnered parents, it’s under 6.
How long does the application process take?
It varies but typically takes 2 to 6 weeks depending on documentation and verification.
Can I receive Parenting Payment and Family Tax Benefit?
Yes, if eligible. Parenting Payment can be combined with other support like FTB A and B or Rent Assistance.