Raising children can be expensive, and the government understands the need to support families during these years. That’s why the Parenting Payment exists. In 2025, this payment has updated amounts and clear eligibility rules that parents must know.
Many people have seen the figures $1,039.70 + $16.20, but what do they mean? Let’s go through the details of how much you can receive, the payment dates, and who exactly qualifies.
What Is Parenting Payment?
The Parenting Payment is financial help given to eligible parents or guardians who are the main carers of young children. It is designed to reduce the financial pressure of daily expenses like food, clothing, schooling, and basic needs while raising a child.
Payments are made fortnightly and the amount depends on your relationship status, income, and other personal circumstances.
$1,039.70 + $16.20 – Understanding the Figures
You may have come across figures like $1,039.70 + $16.20 while reading about Parenting Payment. These numbers are linked to the fortnightly rates and extra supplements parents may get.
Here’s the breakdown:
- $1,039.70 represents the maximum base payment a single parent could receive in a fortnight.
- $16.20 refers to an additional supplement or allowance often added to the main Parenting Payment.
Together, they show the total benefit amount a qualifying parent may receive every two weeks. However, the final amount depends on your income, partner’s income, and other eligibility rules.
Parenting Payment Rates 2025
Here’s a clear table with the current Parenting Payment amounts for 2025:
| Category | Fortnightly Base Rate | Supplements | Possible Total |
|---|---|---|---|
| Single Parent | $1,039.70 | + $16.20 | $1,055.90 |
| Partnered Parent | $715.10 | (varies) | Around $715–$730 |
| Partnered but separated due to illness, care, or prison | $836.50 | (varies) | Around $836–$850 |
These amounts can change slightly due to indexation, which happens twice a year.
Parenting Payment Dates 2025
The Parenting Payment is generally paid fortnightly into the recipient’s bank account. The rates are reviewed and updated twice every year, on 20 March and 20 September.
- 20 March 2025 – First update of the year
- 20 September 2025 – Second update of the year
These are the official adjustment dates when amounts may increase due to inflation and the cost-of-living index. Your actual payment will be received on your regular Centrelink payment date, which is based on your personal payment cycle.
Who Qualifies for Parenting Payment?
Not everyone can claim Parenting Payment. The government has set clear rules to ensure only eligible families benefit.
1. Principal Carer Rules
- If you are single, your youngest child must be under 14 years.
- If you are partnered, your youngest child must be under 6 years.
2. Residency Rules
- You must be an Australian resident living in Australia.
3. Income and Assets Test
- Your income and your partner’s income must be below the threshold.
- If your income is higher than the limit, the payment reduces gradually.
4. Care Requirement
- You must personally care for your child for at least 35% of the time.
5. Other Rules
- Only one partner in a couple can receive Parenting Payment at a time.
- If your youngest child grows older than the set age limit, the payment stops.
Supplements and Extra Benefits
Alongside the Parenting Payment, families may also qualify for additional support, including:
- Energy Supplement – to help with utility bills.
- Rent Assistance – if you pay rent privately.
- Pharmaceutical or other allowances – based on need.
This is why many parents see amounts like $1,039.70 + $16.20 because the base payment is often added with supplements.
Quick Facts Summary
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Payment Name | Parenting Payment |
| Country | Australia |
| Year | 2025 |
| Maximum Rate (Single) | $1,039.70 fortnightly |
| Extra Supplement | $16.20 (varies) |
| Partnered Rate | $715.10 |
| Payment Frequency | Fortnightly |
| Review Dates | 20 March & 20 September |
| Age Rules | Single parent: child under 14; Partnered parent: child under 6 |
| Taxable? | No, not taxable |
The Parenting Payment 2025 is a vital financial support for families raising children. While figures like $1,039.70 + $16.20 often appear in discussions, the exact amount you receive depends on your situation, income, and supplements.
Payments are made fortnightly and are adjusted twice a year, on 20 March and 20 September. For single parents, the maximum payment is higher, while partnered parents receive slightly less.
With additional help like rent assistance and energy supplements, this payment eases the financial burden on families and ensures children have a stable start in life.
FAQs
What does the $1,039.70 + $16.20 Parenting Payment mean?
It shows the maximum base payment plus an additional supplement, giving a total fortnightly amount some parents may receive.
When are Parenting Payment rates updated in 2025?
They are updated twice a year — on 20 March 2025 and 20 September 2025 — in line with cost-of-living adjustments.
Can both parents receive Parenting Payment at the same time?
No. Only one partner in a couple can receive Parenting Payment. The amount is based on whether you are single or partnered.
