Caring for someone who is sick, disabled, or elderly can be both emotionally and financially challenging. To ease this pressure, Services Australia provides different support payments for carers.
One of these important benefits is the Carer Allowance, which offers extra money to those who look after someone who needs daily care.
In 2025, carers across Australia receive $159 every fortnight under the Carer Allowance. This payment helps with daily living costs and ensures carers are not left without financial support while performing their important role.
Let’s break down everything you need to know about the $159 Australia Carer Allowance 2025.
What Is The $159 Australia Carer Allowance 2025?
The Carer Allowance is a fortnightly supplementary payment of $159.30. It is paid to people who provide daily care to:
- A person with a disability
- An elderly person
- Someone with a medical condition or terminal illness
This payment is non-taxable, which means carers keep the full amount without paying tax. The allowance was set on 1 January 2025 and will stay at this rate until 31 December 2025. A new adjusted amount will be announced from 1 January 2026.
Key Details of the Carer Allowance 2025
| Post Title | $159 Australia Carer Allowance 2025 |
|---|---|
| Year | 2025 |
| Country | Australia |
| Benefit Name | Carer Allowance |
| Type | Supplementary Payment |
| Authority | Services Australia / Centrelink |
| Amount | $159.30 per fortnight |
| Payment Frequency | Fortnightly |
| Next Adjustment | 1 January 2026 |
| Tax Status | Tax-Free |
| Income Limit | Combined income below $250,000 per year |
| Purpose | Extra financial support for carers |
| Website | www.servicesaustralia.gov.au |
Carer Allowance Eligibility 2025
Both the carer and the person receiving care must meet certain rules.
Carer Eligibility
- Must be an Australian resident living in the country.
- Must provide daily care at home (either at the carer’s home or the care receiver’s home).
- If caring for a child under 16, carers also get a Health Care Card for medical expenses.
- Carer and their partner’s combined income must be under $250,000 per year.
- No asset test applies for this payment.
Care Receiver Eligibility
- Must be an Australian resident.
- Must need daily care for at least 12 months or have a terminal illness.
- Must be assessed by a medical professional to confirm the level of care required.
- Can receive care at home or at the carer’s home.
Payment Schedule and Reliability
The payment of $159 per fortnight is confirmed and official for 2025. It will continue until 31 December 2025. The Department of Social Services (DSS) will review and announce the new rate on 1 January 2026.
This makes the Carer Allowance a reliable source of income support for carers who meet the eligibility conditions.
Why the Carer Allowance Matters
Caring for someone often means cutting back on work hours or leaving a job entirely. The Carer Allowance helps fill this gap by providing regular financial support. Since it is tax-free, carers receive the full benefit to cover extra expenses like food, transport, and household needs.
This allowance ensures that carers can focus on their important role without worrying as much about money.
The $159 Australia Carer Allowance 2025 is an essential support payment for carers who provide daily care to people with disabilities, illnesses, or age-related needs.
With a clear eligibility process, fortnightly payments, and tax-free status, it offers much-needed financial relief. For carers across the country, this allowance ensures that their selfless contribution to society is recognized and supported by the government.
FAQs
What is the $159 Australia Carer Allowance 2025?
It is a fortnightly payment of $159.30 given to carers who provide daily care to someone with a disability, medical condition, or old age.
Is the $159 Carer Allowance taxable?
No, the Carer Allowance is completely tax-free.
How long will the $159 payment last?
The payment is fixed until 31 December 2025. A new rate will apply from 1 January 2026.
