Raising a child in Australia comes with many financial responsibilities, and for some parents, making ends meet can be challenging.
To help families, Centrelink provides financial assistance through the Parenting Payment, which offers up to $1,026.30 per fortnight for eligible parents.
This article will explain who qualifies, how to claim the benefit, and when payments will be made in February 2025.
Parenting Benefit Overview
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Program Name | Parenting Benefit Payment 2025 |
| Country | Australia |
| Department | Services Australia (Centrelink) |
| Amount | $1,026.30 per fortnight |
| Eligibility | Primary caregiver for a child under 6 (if partnered) or under 14 (if single) |
| Payment Date | Check online at Services Australia |
| Application Process | Apply via Centrelink or MyGov |
What Is the $1,026.30/Fortnight Parenting Benefit?
The Parenting Payment is a financial support program designed to help parents or guardians who are the primary caregivers for young children. Payments are issued every two weeks (fortnightly) to assist with the cost of raising a child.
- Single parents can receive up to $1,026.30 per fortnight.
- Coupled parents can receive $712.30 per fortnight.
The next scheduled increase in payments is set for March 20, 2025, meaning the February 2025 payment will remain at the current rate.
Eligibility Criteria for the Parenting Benefit
To qualify for the $1,026.30 Parenting Payment, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Primary Caregiver Requirement
- If single, you must be the primary caregiver of a child under 14 years old.
- If in a relationship, you must be the primary caregiver of a child under 6 years old.
- One Payment Per Household
- Only one person per household can claim the Parenting Payment.
- Residency Requirement
- You must be a permanent resident or citizen of Australia.
Additional requirements may include income and asset tests, which will determine the exact amount you qualify for.
When Will the Parenting Payment Be Paid?
The $1,026.30 Parenting Payment is issued fortnightly, meaning payments will be sent every two weeks in February 2025. The exact date depends on Centrelink’s payment schedule.
To check your next payment date, log in to your Centrelink account via MyGov or visit Services Australia.
How to Claim the Parenting Benefit in February 2025
Follow these steps to apply for the Parenting Payment:
Step 1: Visit the Services Australia Website
Go to www.servicesaustralia.gov.au to start your application.
Step 2: Apply Online via MyGov
- Log into your MyGov account.
- Link your Centrelink account.
- Select “Parenting Payment” and follow the application steps.
Step 3: Submit Required Documents
Ensure you provide:
- Proof of identity (Passport, Driver’s License, Medicare Card)
- Income and asset details
- Bank account information (for direct deposit)
Step 4: Wait for Approval
Centrelink will review your application and, if approved, deposit the money into your nominated bank account. This process usually takes a few business days.
Step 5: Check Payment Status
After submitting your application, you can track your payment via MyGov or Centrelink’s mobile app.
Fact Check: How Parenting Payments Are Determined
According to government sources, the current fortnightly payment rates are:
| Household Type | Fortnightly Payment (2025) |
|---|---|
| Single Parent | $1,026.30 |
| Coupled Parent | $712.30 |
These rates will remain the same for February 2025, with an increase expected on March 20, 2025 due to annual indexation.
The $1,026.30 Parenting Payment provides much-needed financial support to eligible parents in Australia.
If you are a primary caregiver for a young child, you may qualify for this fortnightly payment from Centrelink.
To ensure you receive your payment, make sure your Centrelink account is updated and check your payment schedule via MyGov. For the most accurate and up-to-date information, visit Services Australia.
