Raising children as a single parent can be a financial challenge, especially with the ongoing rise in household costs such as food, rent, utilities, and school expenses. To help ease this pressure, Centrelink has confirmed an increase to the Parenting Payment in 2025, with eligible single parents now able to receive up to $998.20 every two weeks, along with additional supplements. This support aims to give parents more stability while they balance childcare, work, or study commitments.
How Much Can Single Parents Receive?
The new Parenting Payment rate takes into account not just the base amount but also additional supplements that many families rely on. From September 2025, payments are structured as follows:
| Payment Type | Amount (Fortnightly) |
|---|---|
| Base Parenting Payment | $998.20 |
| Supplement Allowance | $29.50 |
| Energy Supplement | $12.00 |
| Total Fortnightly | $1,039.70 |
This total goes directly into the parent’s nominated bank account every two weeks, with most payments automatically updated for existing recipients. Parents applying for the first time will get the new amount applied once their claim is approved.
Who Is Eligible for Parenting Payment 2025?
Centrelink has outlined clear requirements for people applying for the Parenting Payment. To qualify in 2025, applicants must meet these main criteria:
- Be a single parent with care of a dependent child under 14 years old.
- Live in Australia as a resident or hold an approved permanent visa.
- Be looking for work or participating in training if Centrelink requires it.
- Meet the income and asset thresholds under Centrelink’s rules.
This payment is targeted at those who are unable to work full-time due to family care responsibilities but still need reliable financial support to handle essential living costs.
Updated Income Limits in September 2025
Income limits play a vital role in determining how much support each applicant can receive. The updated September 2025 thresholds are as follows:
| Income Type | Limit (Fortnightly) | Change |
|---|---|---|
| Income Free Area | $224.60 | No change |
| Disqualifying Income Limit | $2,840.85 | +$40.50 |
- Those earning below $224.60 per fortnight are eligible for the full Parenting Payment.
- Any parent earning above $2,840.85 may be disqualified, as this income suggests self-sufficiency.
Parents who fall between these figures may still be eligible for part payments, depending on their exact household income.
When Will Payments Begin?
The increased rates took effect on 20 September 2025 and will continue regularly through the fortnightly Centrelink schedule. Payments are processed every Tuesday or Thursday, depending on the individual’s Centrelink payment cycle.
- Existing recipients do not need to take extra steps — the increase is automatically applied.
- New applicants must submit their claims promptly to ensure they begin receiving the updated amount without delays.
How to Apply for Parenting Payment
For new applicants, the process has been streamlined through MyGov and Centrelink online services. Steps to apply include:
- Sign in to MyGov and link it to your Centrelink account if not already connected.
- Fill out the Parenting Payment form online or through a Centrelink service centre.
- Upload or provide required documents such as:
- Identity and residency proof.
- Evidence of income or assets.
- Documentation showing childcare responsibilities.
- Work or training obligations, if requested.
- Submit the application and monitor the account for updates.
Once approved, payments will begin based on the individual’s schedule.
Tips to Avoid Payment Delays
Many single parents rely heavily on timely payments, so avoiding delays is crucial. To ensure smooth processing:
- Always keep personal details updated on MyGov and Centrelink, such as residential address, contact numbers, and bank details.
- Promptly report income or asset changes, even if the increase is small. Inconsistent reporting can cause payment holds.
- Regularly check MyGov notifications for additional requests made by Centrelink.
- Submit accurate and up-to-date documents when applying to speed up approval.
Importance of the Parenting Payment Increase
The 2025 Parenting Payment has been described as a critical recognition of the financial struggles faced by Australian single parents. This boost is designed to give parents more freedom to manage their budgets while fulfilling care responsibilities.
For many families, this extra injection of support will cover groceries, school supplies, rising utilities, and even health-related costs. Beyond just money, the increase represents reassurance for parents who often juggle the dual pressures of raising children and maintaining financial stability.
Broader Context of Parenting Payments in Australia
Parenting Payment has long been a cornerstone of the welfare support system for families, particularly single-income households. In recent years, inflation and cost-of-living pressures have highlighted the need for consistent updates. The September 2025 changes sit alongside other adjustments, including increases in the Age Pension and JobSeeker, reflecting the government’s attempt to balance welfare support with broader economic challenges.
While some critics suggest that even with the boost, support remains below actual living costs in many cities, advocacy groups have welcomed the payment as a timely step forward. For thousands of parents, it is an acknowledgment both practical and symbolic of the economic responsibilities they carry.
Final Thoughts
The Centrelink Parenting Payment 2025 increase offers eligible single parents up to $998.20 in base support every fortnight, with additional supplements bringing the total to more than $1,039. Payments began in late September 2025 and are delivered automatically every two weeks.
For parents already on the scheme, the adjustment brings relief without the need for extra paperwork. For new applicants, ensuring accurate submissions and staying updated on their MyGov account will be essential to avoid delays.
In a period where every dollar counts, this payment increase stands as more than just welfare assistance — it is a direct investment in the well-being of Australian families raising children under challenging economic conditions.