$915 Parenting Payment Released – Check Out the Latest Rules and Limits

Introduction

Raising a child is one of the most fulfilling yet financially demanding responsibilities any individual or family can undertake. Recognizing the unique challenges that parents face, governments around the world have developed support systems to assist with the costs of raising children. In Australia, one of the key components of this support is the Parenting Payment, a vital lifeline for eligible parents.

With the new 2025 update, the Parenting Payment has been increased to $915, bringing much-needed relief to countless families. But with this increase comes updated eligibility criteria, income limits, obligations, and rules that beneficiaries must understand thoroughly.

In this detailed guide, we’ll break down the $915 Parenting Payment, outlining the new rules, who qualifies, how much one can receive, what obligations come with it, and how to apply for or manage this benefit.

Chapter 1: What is the Parenting Payment?

The Parenting Payment is a fortnightly income support payment offered by Centrelink (part of Services Australia) for low-income parents who are the primary carers of young children.

It is designed to help parents, especially single mothers and fathers or partnered individuals on low incomes, manage the financial burdens of:

• Daily child-rearing costs
• Basic household expenses
• Childcare
• Health and education needs

Chapter 2: Overview of the 2025 Increase – What’s New?

In June 2025, the government announced a new increase in the Parenting Payment to $915, applicable to eligible single parents. This increase is part of a broader effort to tackle rising costs of living, particularly:

• Food prices
• Rent and housing costs
• Childcare and education expenses

Key Highlights of the New Rules:

Chapter 3: Who is Eligible for the $915 Parenting Payment?

Eligibility for the new $915 Parenting Payment hinges on several factors:

1. Parental Status

• Must be the main carer of at least one dependent child
• Can be single or partnered

2. Age of Youngest Child

• Single parents: Child must be under 14 years
• Partnered parents: Child must be under 6 years

3. Residency Status

• Must be an Australian resident
• Must have been in Australia for at least 104 weeks (2 years) unless exempt

4. Income and Assets

• Must pass the income test
• Assets (property, savings, shares) must be below set limits

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Chapter 4: Payment Rates Breakdown

Here’s how the Parenting Payment structure looks after the 2025 increase:

Other top-ups may apply depending on:

• Rent payments
• Number of children
• Family Tax Benefit
• Health status

Chapter 5: Income and Assets Test

To ensure fair distribution, Centrelink applies strict means testing:

1. Income Test

• Single parents can earn up to $202.60/fortnight without impacting payment.
• Beyond that, the payment reduces by 40 cents per $1.

2. Assets Test

• Homeowners: $301,750 (asset limit)
• Non-homeowners: $543,750
• Assets exceeding these limits will affect or cancel eligibility.

Chapter 6: Mutual Obligation Requirements

To continue receiving payments, some recipients must meet participation requirements:

Failing to meet obligations can result in:

• Payment suspension
• Reduction or cancellation

Chapter 7: How to Apply for Parenting Payment

Step-by-Step Application:

1. Create a MyGov account linked to Centrelink.
2. Log in and go to “Make a claim” section.
3. Select Parenting Payment under “Families”.
4. Provide:
   • Proof of identity
   • Child’s birth certificate
   • Bank account details
   • Income and asset details
   • Medical documents (if relevant)
5. Submit your claim online or in person.

Chapter 8: Payment Schedule and Dates

Parenting Payments are paid fortnightly.

Payments usually reflect in the recipient’s bank within 24 hours of processing.

Chapter 9: Complementary Benefits and Supplements

Eligible recipients may also access:

• Rent Assistance (up to $195/fortnight)
• Energy Supplement
• Family Tax Benefit A & B
• Childcare Subsidy
• Concession Cards (e.g., Health Care Card)

Chapter 10: Case Study Examples

Example 1: Single Mother of Two

• Youngest child: 11 years
• Income: $180/fortnight from part-time job
• Receives full $915 + $150 in Rent Assistance
• Mutual obligations: 15 hours of job search/training

Example 2: Partnered Parent

• Youngest child: 3 years
• Combined income with partner: $1,200/fortnight
• Reduced payment of ~$320/fortnight due to income

Chapter 11: Common Issues and How to Resolve Them

1. Delays in Payment

• Ensure all documents are submitted
• Check MyGov notifications

2. Suspension

• Often due to missed appointments
• Call Centrelink to reschedule or explain

3. Wrong Payment Amount

• Update income declarations promptly
• Lodge complaint via Services Australia portal if unresolved

Chapter 12: Benefits of the New Update

• Reduces child poverty risk
• Promotes financial independence for single mothers
• Encourages longer parental care for children under 14
• Provides greater flexibility for employment and study

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Conclusion

The $915 Parenting Payment marks a significant shift in government policy, expanding support for families in real, tangible ways. With cost-of-living pressures rising, this benefit helps parents better support their children without having to choose between caregiving and making ends meet.

But to fully benefit, understanding the new rules, limits, obligations, and tests is critical. Whether you’re applying for the first time or are a long-time recipient, staying informed ensures you get the maximum support you’re entitled to.

Remember: Parenting is a full-time job—and it deserves full-time support.

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Danica