Australian Parents Can Get $915 Payment: If you’re raising kids in Australia, you’re not alone in feeling the pinch. With the rising cost of living, groceries, rent, and school expenses, many parents are wondering what kind of support they can access. The good news? Eligible Australian parents can receive up to $915 per fortnight through the Parenting Payment, a financial support program delivered by Services Australia.
Whether you’re a new parent, a single mum navigating part-time work, or a stay-at-home dad juggling family finances—this guide will walk you through everything you need to know about this benefit: who qualifies, how to apply, and how much you can get.
Australian Parents Can Get $915 Payment
| Details | Description |
|---|---|
| Payment Name | Parenting Payment |
| Maximum Payment | Up to $915 per fortnight (for single parents) |
| Partnered Parent Payment | Up to $718.10 per fortnight |
| Eligibility Criteria | Principal carer of a child under 14 (single) or under 6 (partnered) |
| Application Process | Via myGov or in person at a Centrelink office |
| Additional Help Available | Family Tax Benefit, Rent Assistance, Energy Supplement |
| Recent Policy Change | Age limit for single parents increased from 8 to 14 (as of Sept 2023) |
| Official Website | servicesaustralia.gov.au |
The $915 Parenting Payment could be a game-changer for families balancing the costs of raising children. With expanded eligibility and straightforward application steps, it’s easier than ever to access this support. By understanding the rules, avoiding common mistakes, and combining benefits where possible, parents can maximize their entitlements and provide a more secure future for their children.
What Is the Parenting Payment?
The Parenting Payment is an income support payment for eligible parents or guardians who are the primary carers of young children. Managed by Services Australia, this payment is designed to help families afford the day-to-day costs of raising kids.
There are two categories of this payment:
- Single parents may receive up to $915 per fortnight.
- Partnered parents may receive up to $718.10 per fortnight.
These rates are indexed periodically and correct as of March 2025.
Recent Changes: Age Limit Increased from 8 to 14
In a major win for single parents, the 2023 Federal Budget announced that the cut-off age for the youngest child was being lifted from 8 to 14 years old, effective September 2023.
This means more single parents are now eligible for extended financial support—providing greater stability during their child’s formative school years.
Eligibility Criteria: Who Can Apply For $915 Payment?
To qualify, you must meet residency, carer, income, and asset requirements:
Principal Carer Rule:
- Single parents: Youngest child must be under 14 years.
- Partnered parents: Youngest child must be under 6 years.
- Only one parent can claim the payment.
Residency Rules:
- Be an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or hold an eligible visa.
- Be living in Australia when you claim.
Income & Asset Test:
Your payment will reduce if your income or assets exceed certain limits. Use the Payment and Service Finder to calculate your likely entitlement.
Payment Amounts: What You Could Receive
| Parenting Status | Maximum Fortnightly Payment | Minimum Income Impact |
|---|---|---|
| Single | $915.00 | Reduction starts if income > $202.60 |
| Partnered | $718.10 | Reduction starts if combined income > $1,336.34 |
Note: Amounts are gross and may vary based on other income or benefits.
How to Apply for Parenting Payment – Step-by-Step Guide
Step 1: Set Up myGov
Create a myGov account and link it to Centrelink.
Step 2: Prepare Your Documents
You’ll need:
- Birth certificate or proof of adoption
- Bank details
- Tax File Number
- Rental agreements (if applying for rent assistance)
- Payslips or income proof
Step 3: Lodge Your Claim
Log into myGov > Go to Centrelink > Select Make a Claim > Choose Parenting Payment.
Step 4: Submit Required Documents
Upload your documents and respond to any requests for extra information.
Step 5: Track Your Progress
You’ll be notified through your myGov inbox. Processing typically takes 2–4 weeks.
Tips to Maximize Your Benefits
- Combine Payments: You can also receive Family Tax Benefit, Energy Supplement, and Rent Assistance.
- Report Changes Promptly: Report income or living changes to avoid overpayments.
- Use Centrelink Tools: Tools like the Payment Finder help estimate eligibility quickly.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Applying before your child is born
Forgetting to report your income regularly
Assuming both parents can receive Parenting Payment
Not updating your details when your child ages out of eligibility
Avoiding these mistakes will help ensure uninterrupted payments and avoid debts.
What About Parental Leave Pay?
If you were employed before having a child, you might also qualify for Parental Leave Pay, which offers up to $915.80 per week.
From 1 July 2024, families can receive 22 weeks (110 days) of Parental Leave Pay. It’s taxable, unlike Parenting Payment.
Real-Life Example: Lisa’s Story
Lisa, a single mum of two living in Perth, recently transitioned from JobSeeker to Parenting Payment after her youngest child turned 5. Her part-time work earns her $450/fortnight, so she now receives $620 from Parenting Payment on top of her wages. She also gets Family Tax Benefit A and B, pushing her total fortnightly support to around $1,500.
Professional Insights: Parenting Payment in the Big Picture
According to 2024 data from DSS, over 325,000 families in Australia receive Parenting Payment, with 80% of recipients being single mothers. As welfare evolves post-pandemic, this payment remains crucial in combating child poverty and supporting women’s workforce re-entry.
The shift to extend eligibility to children up to 14 aligns with recommendations from social justice advocates like ACOSS and The Parenthood, who argue that kids need stable parental care longer than age 8.
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FAQs About Australian Parents Can Get $915 Payment
Can both parents claim the payment?
No, only one person per child (the principal carer) can receive the Parenting Payment.
Do I pay tax on the Parenting Payment?
For single parents, it’s not taxable. For partnered parents, it may be depending on your family income.
Can I get it if I already get JobSeeker?
No, these payments cannot be claimed at the same time. You may transition from one to the other.
How long will I receive it?
Until your child turns:
- 14 (if you’re single), or
- 6 (if you’re partnered)
Is it backdated?
In some cases, yes—but only from the date you lodge your claim, not earlier. So don’t delay.
