The parenting payments under Centrelink have been raised in 2025 in order to support single parents in Australia. Single parents will now be able to get up to 998.20 per fortnight or about 1,996.40 per month, which is a significant help to a single parent to meet the expenses of raising children. This rise is an indication of the continued by the government to supplement the family income due to the increased costs of living, including accommodation, schooling, and health services.
Parenting Payment Eligibility
– Solo parents that are the main carer to a child below the age of 14.
– Have to comply with the Australian residency and Income and Assets test requirements.
– In the case of children of age 8 years and above, parents tend to be mutually obliged with such obligations as job-seeking or study requirements unless otherwise.
– Parents who have children with severe disabilities that are on Carer Payment are also eligible without the consideration of the age of the children.
Single Parents (Fortnightly) Payment Details
– Top Parenting payment rate Maximum single: parent rate = 998.20.
– There is a pension supplement of about 29.50-premeditative.
– Payments of an Energy Supplement to help with household energy.
– It is income and asset tested, and the end amount may vary based on the situation of an individual.
Additional Supports
– Rent Assistance can also be availed to eligible parents who rent privately.
– Pharmaceutical Allowance and other concessions can be used.
Parenting payment is available in combination with other forms of family assistance payments such as Family Tax Benefit.
How to Apply
– Directly in the portal, myGov through Centrelink, or in a Service Australia Centre.
– Certify childcare, residence and income information.
– The payments are normally made every fortnight after the eligibility check has been made.
Summary Table: Fortnightly Parenting Payments Single Parents (2025)
| Payment Type | Amount (AUD) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Parenting Payment (Single) | $998.20 + pension supplement ($29.50) | Includes Energy Supplement |
| Rent Assistance | Varies based on rent | Available if renting privately |
| Pharmaceutical Allowance | Approx. $6.20 | For eligible medical expenses |
FAQs
Q1: Does the Parenting Payment of 998.20 apply to partnered parents?
No, this rate is charged on eligible single parents; partnered parents are charged lesser.
Q2: Does it contain any other supplements?
Yes, there is the automatic addition of pension and energy supplements.
Q3: Do I have to meet activity requirements?
Yes, in case of children 8 years of age and more, employment or school responsibilities tend to come into play.
Q4: How often are payments made?
The Centrelink payments are done every two weeks.
