The Carer Payment provides financial support to people who give constant care to someone with a severe disability, medical condition, or who is frail aged.Caring for someone full-time can be both emotionally rewarding and financially challenging.
In 2025, the Australian Government continues to offer this vital support through Services Australia, helping carers manage daily living costs while fulfilling their responsibilities.
This guide explains who can get the Carer Payment, how to apply, and what you need to know about Carer Allowance and other related benefits.
Table of Contents
Understanding the Two Main Carer Payments
Both payments aim to support people who provide daily care, but they apply in different circumstances.
Carer Payment vs Carer Allowance
Carer Payment
Income support for carers who cannot work full-time due to their caring responsibilities. It functions like a pension.
Carer Allowance
A supplementary, non-taxable payment to help cover additional care-related costs such as travel, medical appointments, or equipment. You can receive this even if you work or get other income-support payments.
Carer Payment Explained
What is the Carer Payment?
The Carer Payment provides fortnightly financial support to people who give constant care to someone with a serious disability, medical condition, or who is elderly and frail.
It’s designed for carers whose responsibilities prevent them from maintaining full-time employment.
Eligibility Requirements for Carer Payment
Eligibility Requirements for Carer Payment
1. Caring Role
To qualify for the Carer Payment, you must provide continuous, daily care to someone who requires help for at least six months or who is terminally ill. “Constant care” means you provide supervision and assistance for a significant part of each day—similar to full-time working hours.
2. Needs of the Care Recipient
The person you care for must be assessed as having a high level of care needs using the Adult Disability Assessment Tool (ADAT) or another approved medical assessment. Medical evidence from their treating doctor or specialist will be required when you submit your claim.
3. Residency Rules
Both you and the person you care for must meet Australian residency requirements:
- You must both be Australian residents (citizen, permanent resident, or eligible visa holder).
- You must both live in Australia during the claim period.
4. Income and Assets Test
The Carer Payment is means tested. Your payment rate depends on your and your partner’s income and assets. Centrelink will review your financial situation to determine the exact amount you can receive.
5. Work Limitations
You can still work or study part-time, but to remain eligible you cannot work more than 25 hours per week (including travel time) or exceed 100 hours in a four-week period. Your main responsibility must remain providing daily care.
Payment Rates for 2025
Carer Payment Rates (2025)
| Category | Fortnightly Rate (approx.) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Single | $1,064.00 | Full payment amount based on eligibility and income test. |
| Couple (each) | $801.00 | Each partner may receive this amount if both qualify for Carer Payment. |
| Pension Supplement & Energy Supplement | Varies | May apply depending on your circumstances and eligibility. |
How to Apply for Carer Payment
How to Apply for Carer Payment (Step-by-Step)
| Step | Action | Details |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Check Eligibility | Use the Carer Payment Checker on the Services Australia website to confirm your eligibility before applying. |
| 2 | Gather Documents | Prepare proof of identity, medical reports, and financial details for both you and the person you care for. |
| 3 | Apply Online | Log into your myGov account linked to Centrelink, complete the claim form, and submit it online. |
| 4 | Provide Medical Evidence | Ask your doctor or specialist to complete the required forms confirming the care recipient’s medical condition. |
| 5 | Wait for Assessment | Centrelink will assess your claim and may contact your doctor or request additional information for clarification. |
| 6 | Important Note | Payments are often backdated to the date you lodge your claim, so apply as soon as possible. |
Carer Allowance Explained
What Is the Carer Allowance?
The Carer Allowance is a supplementary payment made every two weeks to help with the extra costs of care.
It can be received alone or together with the Carer Payment and is not taxable.
Eligibility Requirements for Carer Allowance
1. Caring Role
You must provide daily care and attention for someone expected to need care for at least 12 months or who is terminally ill.
2. Needs of the Care Recipient
The person being cared for must meet specific medical and functional criteria, confirmed through appropriate assessment tools.
3. Residency
Both you and the care recipient must live in Australia and meet residency rules.
4. Income Test
There is no assets test, and the income test is relatively high, your and your partner’s adjusted taxable income must be under $250,000 per year.
Payment Rates for 2025
Carer Allowance 2025: Fortnightly Rate
| Type | Fortnightly Rate | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Carer Allowance | $159.30 (non-taxable, per care recipient) | You may receive this allowance for each person you provide care for. |
How to Apply for Carer Allowance
- Apply online through myGov (linked to Centrelink).
- Complete the relevant Carer Allowance claim form.
- Attach supporting medical evidence and any additional documentation required.
Quick Comparison – Carer Payment vs Carer Allowance
Carer Payment vs Carer Allowance (2025)
| Feature | Carer Payment | Carer Allowance |
|---|---|---|
| Purpose | Income support for full-time carers | Supplement for extra care costs |
| Means Test | Yes — income and assets | Income only (< $250,000 p.a.) |
| Minimum Care Period | 6 months | 12 months |
| Work Restrictions | Limited part-time work | Can receive while working |
| Rate (2025) | Up to $1,064 per fortnight | $159.30 per fortnight |
| Taxable | Yes | No |
Extra Help for Carers
💰 Carer Supplement
Eligible carers automatically receive a $600 annual supplement per care recipient, paid in July each year.
🌿 Respite Services
Carers can take a break from their duties for up to 63 days per calendar year without losing their Carer Payment or Allowance. You should notify Centrelink before taking extended breaks.
⚖️ What If Your Claim Is Denied?
If your application is rejected, you can request a review by an Authorised Review Officer (ARO) within 13 weeks. Appeals lodged within this period may include back payments if the decision is overturned.
Additional Support & Resources
- Carer Gateway: Provides free counselling, coaching, and respite information for carers across Australia.
- Health Care Card: May be available to help reduce medical and prescription costs for eligible carers and care recipients.
- Carers Australia: Offers advocacy, information, and community support to help carers stay connected and informed.
- Translated & Audio Resources: Accessible through Services Australia for non-English speakers and those needing accessibility assistance.
Where to Get Help
Disclaimer: The information provided on this page is for general guidance only and prepared by Assist Info AU. It is not an official government source. For verified details, eligibility, and the latest updates, please visit the official Services Australia – Carer Payment page.
For other payments available on centrelink you can go through all available information at Age Pensions, Job Seekers, Disability Support Program