Carer Payments, Allowance & Supplement in Australia (2025 Guide)
Navigating Centrelink support for carers can be confusing. This guide clearly explains the different payments available—the Carer Payment, Carer Allowance, and the annual Carer Supplement—with the latest rates and eligibility for 2025.
Understanding the Main Types of Carer Support
It’s important to know that Centrelink offers different types of support for carers. You may be eligible for one or more of these, depending on your circumstances.
- Carer Payment: An income support payment if you are unable to work in substantial paid employment because you provide full-time care.
- Carer Allowance: A supplementary payment if you care for someone with a disability or medical condition. It can be paid in addition to the Carer Payment.
- Carer Supplement: An annual lump sum payment to help with the costs of caring. It is paid automatically to recipients of the Carer Payment and Carer Allowance.
1. Carer Payment
This is the main payment for carers who provide constant, daily care and cannot support themselves through work. It is subject to both income and assets tests for both the carer and the person being cared for.
Carer Payment Rates (from 20 September 2025)
The Carer Payment is paid at the same rate as the Age Pension. The maximum fortnightly rates are:
| Your Situation | Maximum Fortnightly Rate |
|---|---|
| Single | $1,115.30 |
| Couple (each) | $840.40 |
| Couple (combined) | $1,680.80 |
2. Carer Allowance
This is a fortnightly supplement for people who provide additional daily care for someone with a disability, a severe medical condition, or who is frail aged. It is not income or asset tested.
You can receive the Carer Allowance in addition to a wage or another income support payment like the Carer Payment or Age Pension.
Carer Allowance Rate for 2025
The Carer Allowance rate is $153.50 per fortnight. This rate is for each person you care for.
Can you get both?
Yes. If you meet the eligibility criteria, you can receive both the Carer Payment (as your main income) and the Carer Allowance (as an extra supplement) at the same time.
3. Carer Supplement 2025
This is an annual lump sum payment to help with the extra costs of caring. It is paid automatically—you do not need to apply for it.
How much is the Carer Supplement in 2025?
The Carer Supplement is a payment of **up to $600 annually** for each eligible payment you receive.
- You get one $600 payment for your Carer Payment.
- You get another $600 payment for each person you receive Carer Allowance for.
For example, if you receive the Carer Payment and also receive the Carer Allowance for looking after one person, you will get two supplements, totalling $1,200.
When is the Carer Supplement Paid?
The Carer Supplement is typically paid once a year, usually in **July**.
Automatic Payment
To be eligible for the Carer Supplement, you just need to be receiving an eligible payment (like Carer Payment or Carer Allowance) on the qualifying date, which is usually 1 July.
Summary of Carer Payments
Navigating the system can be tough, but understanding these key payments is the first step. Always check the official Services Australia website for the most detailed eligibility rules and to make a claim.