Providing care to a loved one can be challenging, but Centrelink’s Carer Payment offers vital financial support. If you’re eligible, you could receive up to $1,144.40 per fortnight, depending on your circumstances. Here’s a complete guide to help you understand eligibility, payment rates, and rules.
Table of Contents
Who Can Get the Carer Payment?
To qualify for Carer Payment, both you and the person you care for must:
- Be Australian residents.
- Meet the income and assets test criteria.
Care Needs: Are You Eligible?
You may be eligible for Carer Payment if you:
- Provide constant care for someone who needs support for at least six months.
- Are caring for someone at the end of their life.
Constant care means providing assistance equivalent to a full working day, which prevents you from working full-time. Care can include:
- Physical help: Assisting with dressing, mobility, or lifting.
- Guidance: Supporting shopping, appointments, and medication management.
- Supervision: Ensuring safety and independence.
Working While Caring: You can still work, study, or train up to 25 hours per week and remain eligible.
How Much Can You Receive?
Carer Payment rates vary depending on whether you’re single or partnered. Rates are reviewed twice a year (March 20 and September 20).
| Pension Rates (Per Fortnight) | Single | Couple Each | Couple Combined | Separated Due to Ill Health |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Maximum Basic Rate | $1,047.10 | $789.30 | $1,578.60 | $1,047.10 |
| Maximum Pension Supplement | $83.20 | $62.70 | $125.40 | $83.20 |
| Energy Supplement | $14.10 | $10.60 | $21.20 | $14.10 |
| TOTAL | $1,144.40 | $862.60 | $1,725.20 | $1,144.40 |
Income and Assets Test
The payment amount depends on your income and assets as well as the financial situation of the person you care for. You can read more about how income and assets are assessed.
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Special Rules for the Person You Care For
The person you’re caring for must meet certain criteria, including:
- Having a significant need for care.
- Being assessed through Centrelink’s care assessment process.
If you care for multiple people, there are additional rules that could impact your payment eligibility.
Residence Rules
To receive Carer Payment, both you and the person you care for must meet residence requirements.
Carer Payment vs DVA Payment
If you or your partner receive payments from the Department of Veterans’ Affairs (DVA), it may affect your eligibility for Carer Payment. Ensure you understand the difference between Carer Payment and Veteran Payment.
Do You Need to Pay Tax on Carer Payment?
If you or the person you care for are of Age Pension age, Carer Payment is considered a taxable Centrelink payment. Make sure to:
- Report this income when lodging your tax return.
- Understand whether tax applies to your payment rate.
Transitional Rate of Pension
If you were receiving a pension before 2009, you might be on a transitional rate. This ensures you won’t receive a lower payment under new income test rules introduced at that time.
Bottom Line:
The Carer Payment provides essential financial support for Australians who dedicate their time to caring for loved ones. Whether you’re single, partnered, or managing care alongside part-time work, understanding the eligibility rules and payment structure ensures you get the help you need.
For more details, visit Centrelink’s website or contact Services Australia directly.
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