Parenting Payment is a Centrelink payment for parents or guardians with a young child. There are two rates: Parenting Payment Single and Parenting Payment Partnered. This guide covers the 2026 rates, eligibility, and how to claim.
Current Parenting Payment Rates (2026)
| Payment Type | Maximum Fortnightly Rate |
|---|---|
| Parenting Payment Single | $1,048.70 |
| Parenting Payment Partnered (each person) | $658.20 |
You may also receive Rent Assistance, Energy Supplement, and a Pensioner Concession Card.
Eligibility Criteria
Age of Youngest Child
- Single parents: eligible until your youngest child turns 14
- Partnered parents: eligible only until your youngest child turns 6
After your youngest child reaches these ages, you will generally need to transition to JobSeeker Payment or another support payment.
Residency Requirements
- You must be an Australian resident (or hold a qualifying visa)
- You must live in Australia on the date you claim
- Generally, you need to have been resident for at least 104 weeks (2 years) since becoming a permanent resident
Income Test
Parenting Payment Single
- You can earn up to $247.20 per fortnight before your payment reduces
- Your payment reduces by 50 cents for each dollar between $247.20 and $554.60
- Above $554.60, it reduces by 60 cents per dollar
Parenting Payment Partnered
- Your combined family income is assessed
- You can earn up to $141.60 per fortnight before reduction
- Payment reduces by 50 cents per dollar between $141.60 and $324.80
- Above $324.80, it reduces by 60 cents per dollar
Assets Test
| Situation | Asset Limit |
|---|---|
| Homeowner (single) | $314,000 |
| Non-homeowner (single) | $566,000 |
| Homeowner (couple combined) | $469,000 |
| Non-homeowner (couple combined) | $721,000 |
How to Claim Parenting Payment
- Create a myGov account and link Centrelink (or log in if you already have one)
- Select "Make a claim" and choose "Parenting Payment"
- Provide personal details, relationship status, and information about your child
- Upload supporting documents (birth certificate, proof of identity, bank statements)
- Submit the claim — you can track progress in your Centrelink online account
- If eligible, your payment will start from the date you submitted the claim
Participation Requirements
Once your youngest child reaches a certain age, you may need to meet participation requirements:
- Single parent, child aged 6+: you need to do at least 30 hours of approved activities per fortnight (work, study, or training)
- Partnered parent, child aged 4+: you need to do at least 30 hours of approved activities per fortnight
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I work while receiving Parenting Payment?
Yes. The income test allows you to earn a certain amount before your payment reduces. Many parents work part-time while receiving Parenting Payment.
What if I separate from my partner?
You must notify Centrelink within 14 days of separating. Your payment may change to the single rate, which is higher.
Do I need to pay tax on Parenting Payment?
Parenting Payment is considered taxable income. You should include it in your tax return, but you may not owe tax if your total income is below the tax-free threshold.
This guide is updated for 2026. Check Services Australia website for latest rates.