The Australian Government has confirmed a Parenting Payment increase effective October 2025, boosting financial assistance for eligible parents. This update reflects the need to support households facing high living costs, with an increased base rate plus the Energy Supplement added to payments. The revised rate will assist eligible single and partnered parents with essential expenses such as food, rent, utilities, and childcare.
Updated Payment Rates in October 2025
From October 2025, Parenting Payment recipients will receive:
- Base rate: $1,039.70 per fortnight
- Energy Supplement: $16.20 per fortnight
- Total fortnightly payment: $1,055.90
This adjustment is automatic for existing beneficiaries. Payments are credited directly to the recipient’s nominated bank account every 14 days. The Energy Supplement is designed to help offset higher utility and energy costs, especially important during periods of rising inflation.
Who Can Receive the Parenting Payment in 2025
To be eligible for the new rate, parents must meet the criteria set by Services Australia. These conditions vary depending on whether the applicant is single or partnered. Key requirements include:
- Child Age Limit: Single parents must have a dependent child under 8 years old, partnered parents under 6 years old.
- Residency Status: Must be living in Australia as a permanent resident.
- Primary Caregiver Status: The applicant must be the main carer of the child.
- Income and Assets Test: Must meet the income and asset thresholds applied by Centrelink.
- Centrelink Account: A valid myGov-linked Centrelink account is required to manage payment details.
- Reporting Obligations: Income reports must be submitted regularly to maintain payment eligibility.
Changes in circumstances, such as relationship status or child’s age, must be updated promptly to avoid overpayments or cancellation.
Application Process for New Claimants
Parents who are not already receiving the payment can apply via multiple channels. The main steps include:
- Sign in to myGov and link your account to Centrelink if it’s not already connected.
- Navigate to the “Parenting Payment” application section.
- Complete the application form with details about your income, assets, and child’s care arrangements.
- Upload supporting documents such as proof of identity, child’s birth certificate, and income statements.
- Submit the application and track progress via the Centrelink portal.
Applicants can also apply in person at a Centrelink service centre if online access is not suitable.
Additional Notes for Existing Payment Recipients
- Automatic Adjustment: No separate application is needed for the October 2025 increase; rates will be updated automatically.
- Payment Verification: Recipients should use the Centrelink Payment and Service Finder tool or the Centrelink app to verify updated rates.
- Energy Supplement Inclusion: This supplement is now part of the regular disbursement and will not require a separate claim.
Payment Schedule and Distribution
The Parenting Payment is delivered fortnightly, with the next rate change implemented from October 2025. Payments are generally processed on the same weekday each cycle based on the recipient’s start date. Delays can occur if reporting requirements are incomplete or bank details are outdated.
Why the Increase Matters
The Parenting Payment update aims to provide targeted relief to low or single-income households raising young children. With ongoing cost-of-living pressures in Australia, even modest increases can help families manage essential bills and household needs. For single parents, the payment acts as a vital safety net, while for partnered families it supplements household income during critical child-rearing years.
Full October 2025 Parenting Payment Breakdown
| Payment Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Payment Name | Parenting Payment (Single/Partnered) |
| Base Rate | $1,039.70 per fortnight |
| Energy Supplement | $16.20 per fortnight |
| Total Payable | $1,055.90 per fortnight |
| Eligibility Age (Child) | Under 8 years (Single) / Under 6 years (Partnered) |
| Payment Start Date | October 2025 |
| Payment Method | Direct deposit to bank |
| Authority | Services Australia / Centrelink |
Income and Asset Test Considerations
The exact payment a recipient receives can be reduced depending on income and assets. Exceeding the set thresholds may lead to partial payments or ineligibility. Parents should keep their declared income accurate and up to date to prevent debts and maintain compliance.
Steps to Avoid Payment Delays
- Keep myGov details up to date, especially bank account information.
- Submit fortnightly income reports on time.
- Notify Centrelink immediately of any changes in household circumstances.
- Retain relevant documentation for verification if requested.
Key Takeaway
From October 2025, eligible parents across Australia will benefit from a boosted Parenting Payment, receiving $1,055.90 per fortnight including the Energy Supplement. The changes aim to help families cope with inflation and maintain financial stability while fulfilling caregiving responsibilities. Proper application, timely income reporting, and maintaining updated details with Centrelink are essential to accessing and keeping this support.