The Australian Government has officially confirmed the Parenting Payment Increase December 2025, providing a much-needed financial boost to single parents and low-income caregivers. Delivered through Centrelink, this payment rise is aimed at supporting families raising young children amidst ongoing cost-of-living pressures. The increase reflects the government’s commitment to ensuring every child has a stable foundation, while also recognising the unique challenges faced by single-parent households.
The Parenting Payment Increase December 2025 will automatically apply to eligible recipients and marks a key policy shift that expands both the payment rate and eligibility criteria. With higher grocery bills, rent, transport costs, and childcare expenses weighing heavily on Australian families, this enhancement is designed to help parents meet essential needs and reduce financial stress.
Who Is Eligible for the Parenting Payment 2025?
The eligibility for the Parenting Payment 2025 remains largely unchanged, but with the December 2025 revision, more single parents can qualify for longer. As of December, the government has extended the eligibility age of the youngest child from 8 years old to 14 years old, allowing more parents to continue receiving the payment.
To qualify for the Parenting Payment Increase December 2025, you must:
-
Be a principal carer of a dependent child under 14 years of age
-
Be single, or in some cases partnered (with separate income test rules)
-
Be an Australian resident and physically present in Australia
-
Meet the income and assets test as outlined by Centrelink
-
Not be receiving other conflicting payments, such as JobSeeker (unless transitioning)
The extension to age 14 means thousands of single mothers and fathers who would have moved to a lower payment under JobSeeker will continue receiving Parenting Payment for longer, with the added benefit of higher payment rates.
Updated Payment Amounts from December 2025
The Parenting Payment Increase December 2025 has adjusted the maximum fortnightly amount for single parents, starting Monday, 2 December 2025. The increased rates reflect inflation adjustments and policy changes to support families more meaningfully.
Here are the updated fortnightly payment rates for December 2025:
| Category | New Rate (Fortnightly) | Previous Rate | Increase |
|---|---|---|---|
| Single (Principal Carer) | $1,096.70 | $981.70 | +$115 |
| Partnered (Primary Carer) | $802.50 | $802.50 | No change |
The increase only applies to single parents. Partnered parents already receiving Parenting Payment will continue to receive the same amount unless reassessed. The additional funds are expected to help with school-related expenses, transport, groceries, and childcare essentials.
Payment Schedule and How to Receive It
The Parenting Payment Increase December 2025 will be implemented in the first fortnightly payment cycle of December, starting 2 December 2025. Payments will be issued via Centrelink to the bank account linked to your Services Australia account.
Key Details:
-
Payment Start Date: 2 December 2025
-
Method: Fortnightly direct deposit
-
Agency: Services Australia (Centrelink)
-
No action needed: If eligible, the increase will be applied automatically
Recipients can confirm the increased amount through their MyGov account linked with Centrelink. It’s also advised to check payment summaries and update any changes in family circumstances promptly to avoid overpayments or delays.
Why the Parenting Payment Increase Matters in 2025
This increase is more than just a financial adjustment. It acknowledges the long-term challenges faced by single parents in today’s economic climate. The Parenting Payment Increase December 2025 ensures that thousands of families will not have to transition to JobSeeker prematurely, preserving income security while children are still young.
Benefits of the payment increase:
-
Extends support to single parents with children up to age 14
-
Provides an extra $115 per fortnight
-
Reduces financial pressure during key stages of childhood and early teens
-
Promotes mental health and well-being through stable income
This change reflects the government’s efforts to support workforce re-engagement while still protecting family welfare during critical years of a child’s development.
FAQs
Who qualifies for the Parenting Payment Increase December 2025?
Single parents who are the principal carers of a child under 14 years old, meet income/asset criteria, and are Australian residents are eligible.
How much will I receive after the payment increase?
As of December 2025, eligible single parents will receive $1,096.70 fortnightly—an increase of $115 over the previous rate.
When will the increased Parenting Payment be applied?
The updated payment will be disbursed from 2 December 2025, aligning with your regular Centrelink payment schedule.
Do I need to apply for the increase separately?
No. If you are already receiving Parenting Payment and meet the new eligibility conditions, the increase will be applied automatically.
What if my child turns 14 in December?
You will be eligible up until the day before your child turns 14. After that, Centrelink may transition you to another payment such as JobSeeker, depending on your circumstances.
Click here to know more.