Life with kids is a rollercoaster—emotions, expenses, and let’s not forget the sleepless nights. But thankfully, there’s a little help on the financial front in Australia. If you’re raising kids and navigating Centrelink payments, the mention of a $915 Parenting Payment for 2025 probably caught your eye, right?
So, is this payment real? Who gets it? How do you apply? What does it cover?
Let’s answer all those burning questions (and a few you haven’t thought of yet).
What Is the Centrelink Parenting Payment?
A Lifeline for Aussie Parents
The Parenting Payment is a financial support scheme provided by Centrelink (through Services Australia) to eligible parents or guardians who are the primary carers of young children.
It’s designed to provide a steady income for those who may not be able to work full-time due to caregiving responsibilities.
Parenting Payment vs. Other Centrelink Payments
Don’t confuse this with Family Tax Benefit or Paid Parental Leave. This one’s a long-term income support, not a one-time baby bonus.
The $915 Payment: What’s That All About?
Is It Weekly, Fortnightly, or Monthly?
Here’s the scoop: The $915 figure refers to the maximum fortnightly Parenting Payment (including supplements) for some eligible recipients in 2025. It’s not a lump sum or a monthly payout. It’s money that hits your bank account every two weeks—cha-ching!
Who Gets the Full $915?
Not everyone qualifies for the full amount. Factors like your income, partner’s income, and whether you’re single or partnered affect the final sum.
Who’s Eligible for the Parenting Payment in 2025?
General Eligibility Criteria
To qualify, you must:
- Be the primary carer of a child under a certain age.
- Meet income and assets tests.
- Be a resident of Australia and satisfy residency rules.
- Participate in mutual obligations (like job searching) unless exempt.
Age Cut-Offs for Children
- For single parents: Your youngest child must be under 14.
- For partnered parents: Your youngest child must be under 6.
Single vs Partnered: How It Affects Payments
Single Parent? You Might Get More
Single parents are often eligible for the maximum amount—which is where the $915 figure comes in.
Partnered Parent? Expect Less
Partnered parents usually receive a reduced amount due to combined household income and a lower maximum rate.
How Much Can You Actually Get?
Current Fortnightly Rates (As of 2025)
- Single with child: Up to $915.40/fortnight
- Partnered parent: Up to $689.00/fortnight
Keep in mind these numbers include the Pension Supplement and Energy Supplement.
Supplements Breakdown
- Pension Supplement: Helps with bills and utilities.
- Energy Supplement: Assists with energy costs.
What About Income & Assets Tests?
Your Income Affects Your Payment
If you earn too much, your payment reduces or cuts off. Here’s a simplified version:
- You can earn a little bit (called a free area) before the payment starts reducing.
- After that, your payment tapers off based on how much you earn.
Partner’s Income Also Matters
If you’re in a relationship, your partner’s income is included in the test. So yes, their paycheck can affect your payment.
How to Apply for Parenting Payment in 2025
Step-by-Step Application Process
- Create a myGov account (if you haven’t already).
- Link it to Centrelink.
- Navigate to the Payments and Claims section.
- Choose Parenting Payment, fill out the online form.
- Upload supporting documents (ID, birth certificates, etc.).
- Submit and wait for processing.
Required Documents
- Proof of identity
- Child’s birth certificate
- Rental/mortgage statements
- Income details
How Long Does It Take to Get Approved?
Typically, it takes 2 to 4 weeks for the first payment to arrive after your claim is lodged—provided all documents are submitted on time.
Can You Get Parenting Payment and Work?
Yes, But There’s a Catch
You can work while receiving Parenting Payment—but if you earn too much, your payment amount is reduced or stopped.
Use the Income Bank wisely (it lets you accumulate unused income free areas and apply them when needed).
What Can You Use the Payment For?
Anything you need to support your family:
- Rent or mortgage
- Groceries
- Utilities
- School fees
- Transport
There’s no restriction—it’s your money to manage your household.
Do You Need to Report Changes?
Absolutely!
Any changes in the following must be reported within 14 days:
- Income
- Relationship status
- Address
- Child custody changes
Failing to report can lead to overpayments or even debt recovery.
Mutual Obligations: What You Need to Do
Job-Readiness Requirements
Depending on your child’s age and your situation, you may need to:
- Look for work
- Attend appointments with a job provider
- Participate in training or education
Exemptions Exist
Health issues, domestic violence, or caring for a child with a disability may qualify you for an exemption.
Payment Dates in 2025
You’ll get paid every second Tuesday or Wednesday, depending on your start date. You can check exact dates via the Centrelink online account or Express Plus Centrelink app.
Handy Tools You Should Use
- myGov: Central access point for all government services.
- Express Plus Centrelink App: Report income, update details, view payment dates—all from your phone.
- Payment and Service Finder Tool: Check your eligibility instantly.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Not reporting income on time
- Missing mutual obligation appointments
- Failing to update address or relationship changes
- Assuming you’ll always get the full $915
Avoid these slip-ups and you’ll stay in the clear.
Pro Tips to Maximize Your Parenting Payment
- Combine with Family Tax Benefit and Rent Assistance if eligible.
- Keep an eye on Centrelink letters—they often contain crucial updates.
- Save your income bank credits for when you need them most.
Conclusion: Is the $915 Parenting Payment in 2025 Worth It?
Absolutely! If you’re raising a child and meet the criteria, the $915 Parenting Payment is a game-changer. It won’t make you rich, but it will ease the pressure when juggling nappies, night feeds, and non-stop laundry.
Just remember—stay up to date with your details, use all the tools at your disposal, and don’t hesitate to reach out to Centrelink for help.
FAQs: $915 Centrelink Parenting Payment in 2025
1. Can I get Parenting Payment and Family Tax Benefit at the same time?
Yes! If you’re eligible, you can receive both payments. They’re separate supports with different criteria.
2. What happens if my child turns 14?
If you’re a single parent and your youngest child turns 14, you’ll stop being eligible for Parenting Payment. You might be transitioned to JobSeeker Payment if you’re looking for work.
3. Is the $915 amount taxed?
Nope! Parenting Payment is tax-free for most recipients. But always double-check with the ATO if your income sources change.
4. Do I need to report child support payments?
Yes. Child support payments can affect your Family Tax Benefit, but not usually the Parenting Payment.
5. What if I make a mistake in my report?
Update it as soon as possible through your Centrelink online account or app. Honest mistakes are generally forgiven—but don’t leave it too late.
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