$1,019 Parenting Payment Starts in May 2025 – The $1,019 Parenting Payment has officially rolled out in May 2025, bringing crucial financial relief to single parents and carers across Australia. Managed by Services Australia, this government support is part of a broader strategy to assist families raising children, particularly those in low- to middle-income brackets.
This fortnightly payment is now available to thousands of eligible Australians, with the potential to increase further through supplements like Rent Assistance and the Energy Supplement. Whether you’re a new parent, a single caregiver, or transitioning from JobSeeker, understanding how the Parenting Payment works can help you plan your finances more effectively.
$1,019 Parenting Payment Starts in May 2025
| Detail | Description |
|---|---|
| Payment Amount | Up to $1,019.50 fortnightly for eligible single parents |
| Who Can Apply | Single or partnered parents meeting income, residency, and caregiving criteria |
| Child Age Criteria | Under 14 (single parent), under 6 (partnered parent) |
| Supplements Available | Rent Assistance, Energy Supplement, Pension Supplement |
| Payment Frequency | Every 2 weeks (fortnightly) |
| Administered By | Services Australia |
| Application Process | Online via MyGov or in-person at Centrelink |
| Residency Requirement | Must be an Australian resident and live in the country |
The $1,019 Parenting Payment introduced in May 2025 provides significant financial relief for Australian parents. Whether you’re a single parent raising children alone or a partnered carer balancing family and part-time work, this payment can stabilize your finances and support your household.
You also gain access to educational supplements, rent relief, job-readiness programs, and Family Tax Benefits, making it a comprehensive support package for families.
What Is the Parenting Payment?
The Parenting Payment is a government-provided income support payment for the main caregiver of a dependent child. It ensures parents who are not currently working full-time can still provide for their families, especially during the early and most crucial years of a child’s development.
As of May 2025, the maximum basic rate for single parents has increased to $1,019.50 per fortnight, thanks to policy updates and inflation adjustments. Partnered parents receive a slightly lower base amount, adjusted for combined household income.
Who Is Eligible for the Parenting Payment?
Eligibility is determined based on several factors, including your income, assets, residency status, and the age of your youngest child.
Primary Carer Status
You must be the primary caregiver of a dependent child. This means you’re responsible for most of the child’s day-to-day care and wellbeing.
Age of Youngest Child
- Single parents: Your youngest child must be under 14 years of age.
- Partnered parents: Your youngest child must be under 6 years of age.
Residency Requirements
You must be an Australian resident and physically living in the country. Most applicants must have lived in Australia for at least 104 weeks in the last 2 years.
Income and Assets Test
- Income Test: Your payment is affected once your income exceeds $220.60 per fortnight (single). Above this threshold, your Parenting Payment is gradually reduced.
- Assets Test: You must also pass an assets test. Excessive savings, investments, or property could impact your eligibility.
How Much Will You Get?
Let’s break down what the typical Parenting Payment for a single parent may include as of May 2025:
- Base Rate: $961.50 per fortnight
- Pension Supplement: $29.00
- Energy Supplement: ~$10 (varies)
- Rent Assistance: Additional amount if renting
Total Potential Fortnightly Payment: ~$1,019.50 to $1,050+, depending on your personal situation.
Keep in mind, these figures are before any deductions or income test reductions are applied.
Additional Supplements You May Be Eligible For
On top of the base Parenting Payment, you might receive the following:
Energy Supplement
A small fortnightly top-up to help manage electricity and gas bills.
Rent Assistance
If you rent privately or pay for accommodation, you could receive up to $180.80 per fortnight extra depending on rent paid and household situation.
Education Entry Payment
If you’re studying to return to the workforce, you may qualify for a one-off Education Entry Payment of $208.
Telephone and Internet Allowance
A minimal allowance for those who qualify under the Pensioner Concession framework.
Parenting Payment and Family Tax Benefit (FTB)
You may be eligible to receive Family Tax Benefit Part A and B alongside the Parenting Payment. This combination can provide additional support, especially for low-income families with children in school or early childcare.
Employment Services and Job Readiness Support
Recipients of the Parenting Payment are often eligible for access to free employment services, career training, and resume support through Workforce Australia.
How to Apply for Parenting Payment?
The easiest way to apply is online through your MyGov account, linked to Centrelink.
Step-by-Step Guide
- Log into MyGov: my.gov.au
- Link your Centrelink account.
- Navigate to ‘Payments and Claims’ → Select Parenting Payment.
- Fill out the online claim form with accurate information.
- Upload any required documents, such as ID and proof of child’s age.
- Submit and wait for confirmation.
Processing Time: It usually takes 1 to 4 weeks for claims to be processed.
Recent Changes in 2025: What’s New?
The Parenting Payment underwent key reforms in late 2023, now fully in effect in 2025. The most notable changes include:
- Reinstatement of Parenting Payment Single until the child turns 14 (previously age 8).
- Higher income threshold before payment reductions begin.
- Automatic transfer from JobSeeker to Parenting Payment for eligible parents.
- Increased supplement rates.
- Easier access to linked benefits via a unified application process.
Example Scenarios
Case 1: Single Parent, One Child Aged 10
Sarah is a single mum in Melbourne. She works part-time and earns $200 per fortnight. Since her income is below the threshold, she receives full Parenting Payment plus rent assistance, totaling around $1,050/fortnight.
Case 2: Partnered Parent, One Child Aged 4
Asha and her husband live in Sydney. She earns $150/week, and her husband earns $800/week. Their combined income reduces the Parenting Payment, but she still qualifies for partial payments and energy supplement.
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FAQs
Can both parents claim Parenting Payment?
No, only one parent (the primary carer) can claim the Parenting Payment per child.
Is the Parenting Payment taxable?
Yes, the Parenting Payment is taxable income and must be included in your tax return.
What happens if I start working full-time?
If your income exceeds the threshold, your payment will reduce or stop. You may still qualify for other benefits like Family Tax Benefit.
Can I get Parenting Payment if I’m on a visa?
Only permanent residents and some protected visa holders are eligible.
How often is the Parenting Payment made?
It is paid every 2 weeks (fortnightly), directly into your bank account.
Can I receive Parenting Payment and study at the same time?
Yes. You may also be eligible for Education Entry Payment and Pensioner Education Supplement.
