For many single parents in Australia, raising children alone comes with financial strain. Balancing bills, rent, groceries, education costs, and other necessities can be overwhelming. To provide consistent support, the Australian Government has confirmed a Parenting Payment increase. From 20th September 2025, single parents will receive a base payment of $998.20 per fortnight, regardless of whether they are under or above age pension age.
This payment is designed to act as a stable source of income, allowing single parents to better manage essential household expenses while caring for their children.
$998.20 Centrelink Parenting Payment September 2025
The Parenting Payment is a fortnightly allowance for single parents of children under 14 years old. Previously, from 20th March 2025, the base rate stood at $982.50 per fortnight. Starting from 20th September 2025, the updated rate will be $998.20, offering extra relief to households.
This increase ensures parents continue to have a reliable financial safety net to manage daily living costs while focusing on their children’s wellbeing.
Australia New Parenting Payment September 2025 – Quick Facts
| Post Title | $998.20 Centrelink Parenting Payment September 2025 |
|---|---|
| Year | 2025 |
| Month | September |
| Country | Australia |
| Benefit Name | Parenting Payment |
| Provided By | Services Australia / Centrelink |
| Who Qualifies? | Single parents caring for children under 14 years |
| Purpose | To provide financial support |
| Payment Frequency | Fortnightly |
| Base Payment Amount | $998.20 per fortnight |
| Supplement Payment | $29.50 per fortnight |
| Energy Supplement | $12.00 per fortnight |
| Total Increase | $16.20 per fortnight for singles |
| Effective Date | 20th September 2025 |
| Category | Finance |
| Official Web Portal | www.servicesaustralia.gov.au |
Centrelink Payment Date September 2025
Alongside the Parenting Payment, other Centrelink adjustments will also take effect in September 2025, including:
- $4,000 Centrelink Bonus Deposit
- $1,178 Australia Age Pension Increase
- $663 Farm Household Allowance (FHA) Update
Australia’s Parenting Benefit Eligibility 2025
The $998.20 base payment is available to all eligible single parents, regardless of their pension age. To qualify, applicants must meet the following conditions:
- Be a single parent caring for a child under 14
- Be the principal carer of the child
- Satisfy Australian residency requirements
- Meet mutual obligation requirements
- Fall within the income and assets test limits
Updated Income Thresholds
| Single | Previous | New | Increase |
|---|---|---|---|
| Income Free Area | $224.60 | $224.60 | – |
| Disqualifying Income Limit (under 67 + Pharmaceutical Allowance) | $2,800.35 | $2,840.85 | $40.50 |
Australia Parenting Payment New Rates September 2025
Under Age Pension Age
| Category | Previous | New | Increase |
|---|---|---|---|
| Base Pension | $982.50 | $998.20 | $15.70 |
| Supplement | $29.00 | $29.50 | $0.50 |
| Energy Supplement | $12.00 | $12.00 | – |
| Total | $1,023.50 | $1,039.70 | $16.20 |
Partnered Parents
| Category | Previous | New | Increase |
|---|---|---|---|
| Base Pension | $715.10 | $726.50 | $11.40 |
| Energy Supplement | $7.90 | $7.90 | – |
| Total | $723.00 | $734.40 | $11.40 |
Over Age Pension Age
| Category | Previous | New | Increase |
|---|---|---|---|
| Base Pension | $982.50 | $998.20 | $15.70 |
| Supplement | $83.60 | $84.90 | $1.30 |
| Energy Supplement | $14.10 | $14.10 | – |
Partnered Parents
| Category | Previous | New | Increase |
|---|---|---|---|
| Base Pension | $715.10 | $726.50 | $11.40 |
| Supplement | $63.00 | $64.00 | $1.00 |
| Energy Supplement | $10.60 | $10.60 | – |
| Total | $788.70 | $801.10 | $12.40 |
Fact Check: $998.20 Parenting Benefit September 2025
Unlike speculative payments, the $998.20 Parenting Payment increase is confirmed and reliable. From 20th September 2025, eligible single parents will begin receiving the updated rate.
It’s important to note that the $998.20 amount is the base rate only, excluding supplement and energy supplement amounts. Previously, the base was $982.50, but the September adjustment increases it by $15.70.
For more information, families can visit the Department of Social Services (dss.gov.au) or the official Services Australia portal.
FAQs Related to $998.20 Centrelink Parenting Payment September 2025
What is the $998.20 Parenting Payment in Australia?
It is the updated base payment for single parents, effective from 20th September 2025.
Who is eligible to claim the $998.20 Parenting Benefit 2025?
Single parents caring for a child under 14, provided they meet residency and income rules.
Is the $998.20 Parenting Payment confirmed?
Yes. The update has been verified and will take effect in September 2025.
Where can Australians check the official update?
Through the Department of Social Services or Services Australia’s official web portal.
When will the new Parenting Payment apply?
From 20th September 2025, replacing the earlier rate of $982.50.
