Centrelink $915 Parenting Payment for May 2025: A Complete Guide Raising kids and managing money can be overwhelming especially for single parents or low income families. Good news is the Centrelink Parenting Payment is here to help. For May 2025 eligible parents and carers can receive up to $915 every 2 weeks , much needed financial relief. Whether you’re a first time parent or revisiting your entitlements this guide will walk you through everything you need to know—eligibility, application process, payment dates and more.
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Maximum Fortnightly Rate | Single Parent: $1,011.50 + $29 Pension Supplement; Partnered: $715.10; Partnered (Special Cases): $836.50 |
| Payment Dates (May 2025) | 1 May 2025 and 29 May 2025 |
| Child Age Requirements | Single parent: youngest child under 14; Partnered: youngest child under 6 |
| Application Process | Online through myGov, linked to Centrelink |
| Income Reporting | Fortnightly reporting required |
| Additional Payments | May include Rent Assistance, Energy Supplement, and more |
| Official Info | Services Australia – Parenting Payment |
What is the Parenting Payment?
The Parenting Payment is a fortnightly payment by Centrelink through Services Australia . It’s for low income families where one parent is the primary carer of a young child. Unlike Parental Leave Pay which is a short term payment for new parents the Parenting Payment is long term (subject to eligibility).
Many people refer to the $915 figure when talking about this payment. Not everyone gets exactly this amount but partnered parents often get payments close to this amount especially when supplements like the Pension Supplement are included.
Who can get the Parenting Payment?
To be eligible for the Parenting Payment you’ll need to meet the following:
- Be the primary carer of a dependent child.
- Be an Australian resident currently living in Australia.
- Pass the income and assets tests .
- Not be receiving Parental Leave Pay for the same child.
Age Requirements
- Single Parents : Your youngest child must be under 14 years old .
- Partnered Parents : Your youngest child must be under 6 years old .
You may also need to meet mutual obligation requirements such as participating in employment services or training programs if your child is over 6 months old.
How much will you get?
The amount you get depends on your circumstances. Here are the maximum rates for May 2025:
- Single Parent : Up to $1,011.50 per fortnight (plus a $29 Pension Supplement ).
- Partnered Parent : Up to $715.10 per fortnight .
- Partnered (Special Circumstances) : Up to $836.50 per fortnight .
Example Let’s say Sarah is a single parent with a 10 year old child and no other income. She could get $1,040.50 every 2 weeks ($1,011.50 + $29 Pension Supplement). If she rents she may also be eligible for Rent Assistance and get even more.
When will you be paid?
Centrelink pays the Parenting Payment every 2 weeks into your nominated bank account. For May 2025 the payment dates are:
- Thursday, 1 May 2025
- Thursday, 29 May 2025
To avoid delays:
- Report your income on time.
- Keep your details up to date in your myGov account .
How to get the Centrelink $915 Parenting Payment for May 2025
Claiming the Parenting Payment is easy with myGov . Follow these steps:
Step 1: Create or Log Into myGov
Go to myGov and log in or create an account if you don’t have one.
Step 2: Link to Centrelink
If your myGov isn’t linked to Centrelink yet, follow the prompts to connect the two.
Step 3: Start Your Claim
Go to “Payments and Claims” and select “Parenting Payment.” Follow the prompts to begin.
Step 4: Upload Required Documents
You’ll need to provide:
- Identification (e.g. driver’s license or passport).
- Your child’s birth certificate.
- Proof of income and assets.
- An Employment Separation Certificate if you’ve just left a job.
Step 5: Track Your Claim
After you submit your claim, check its status through your Centrelink online account or the Express Plus Centrelink app .
Mutual Obligation Requirements
If your youngest child is over 6 months old you may need to meet activity requirements such as:
- Job training.
- Appointments with an employment services provider.
- Applying for jobs or working part time.
These requirements vary depending on your family situation and your child’s age.
Extra Help
You may be eligible for extra assistance including:
- Rent Assistance : If you rent privately or in community housing.
- Energy Supplement : To reduce energy bills.
- Pharmaceutical Allowance : Towards prescription costs.
- Telephone Allowance : For pensioners using mobile or internet.
- Family Tax Benefit (A & B) : Can be paid in addition to the Parenting Payment.
How to Report Income
You must report your income fortnightly even if it’s $0. You can do this:
- Online : Through your myGov account.
- Mobile App : Using the Express Plus Centrelink app.
- Phone : 133 276 .
Reporting on time means your payments won’t be delayed or penalised.
FAQs
1. Can both parents get the Parenting Payment?
No. Only one parent or carer per child can get the Parenting Payment at any one time.
2. Can I work and get this payment?
Yes, but your earnings will reduce the amount you get. Payments decrease as your income increases. Always report your income.
3. Is the Parenting Payment taxable?
Yes. The Parenting Payment is taxable and must be declared in your tax return.
4. What if my circumstances change?
Tell Centrelink within 14 days of any changes such as starting a new job, changing your relationship status or if your child leaves your care.