Parenting Payment is one of Australia’s key social security benefits designed to assist parents who are taking care of children, while overseeing household and financial obligations. In 2025, Centrelink has officially increased the rate of Parenting Payment for single parents to $1,049.70 per fortnight. Payment for single parents has increased to acknowledge the increased cost of living across the country so parents can provide more financial security to families who rely on this payment for most of their financial support. This is an important update for Australians dealing with the dual responsibilities of raising children and financial stress.
2025 New Payment Rates
Effective September 2025, the maximum payment Parenting Payment for single parents is $1,049.70 per fortnight for single parents. This is higher than past years, and acknowledges the policy intended to relieve financial stress on families. This payment comes to single parents who children are all younger that 8. The payment is lower for partnered parents, as the rate is lower due to household income. Significantly these payments are indexed to relieve financial stress on families. This payment comes to single parents who children are all younger that 8. The payment is lower for partnered parents, as the rate is lower due to household income.
Families will benefit from the increase in payments. It will lift the financial burden for a lot of families in Australia. Single parents struggle to re-enter the job market and the cost of childcare and inflexible hours make it even more difficult. With the increased payments, families will be able to afford basic necessities like rent, school fees and some healthcare. It will not eliminate the financial pressure but the increase will be a form of recognition for the financial burden single parents have to carry.
Most conditions for eligibility to Parenting payments will not be changed for 2025. Applicants must have a dependent child, residency rights, and income and assets under the thresholds. Single parents will receive the payment until the youngest child turns 8. Subsequently, they will receive the Job Seeker Payment if they need more support. Application is a 2-step process which can be done in person at Services Australia or online at Centrelink myGov. It is necessary to provide identification, assets and income, and details of dependent children.
Broader Social Context
The increase in Parenting Payments demonstrates a more comprehensive government strategy regarding family welfare and child poverty. Higher rents, the price of energy, and the costs of education stretch single-parent households and other families thin. By raising welfare payments, the government responds to basic economic needs, encourages the maintenance of families, and supports the wellbeing of children. The policy seeks to counter the opened economic gaps within Australian society and meets the basic social aim of protecting families living in poverty during economic turbulence.
Short Form Data Table
| Benefit Type | 2025 Fortnightly Rate | Eligible Children’s Age Limit |
|---|---|---|
| Single Parent | $1,049.70 | Up to 8 years old |
| Partnered Parent | Lower rate applies | Shared eligibility |
FAQs
Q1. Who is able to receive the updated Parenting Payment?
Those eligible are single parents who have a dependent child under the age of eight, along with partnered parents who satisfy the required income and asset tests.
Q2. How frequently is the Parenting Payment updated?
Payments are updated in March and September of each year to keep them in line with the costs of living.
Q3. Can parents who receive the Parenting Payment still work?
Yes, parents are able to work and earn income, but the payments will be adjusted based on the earnings.
