Introduction
Australia’s carers are the unsung heroes of society—quietly supporting loved ones with disabilities, medical conditions, or age-related decline. In recognition of their vital contribution, Centrelink delivers regular Carer Payments, which in June 2025 are scheduled to arrive next week, ranging between $785 and $855 per fortnight, depending on eligibility.
This article dives deep into the eligibility criteria, updated payment amounts, payment dates, and income/asset rules, along with how you can maximize your benefits. We also cover real-life impacts, updated tables, and frequently asked questions—all to help you understand if you’re eligible and how to claim your rightful support.
Chapter 1: What Is the Carer Payment?
The Centrelink Carer Payment is an income support payment for people who give constant care to someone with a disability, severe illness, or frailty due to age. Unlike the Carer Allowance (which is supplementary), the Carer Payment is a full-time financial support for people unable to engage in substantial paid employment due to their caring responsibilities.
1.1 Key Features
- Paid fortnightly through Services Australia
- Taxable income
- Eligibility assessed through medical documentation, dependency status, and carer role
- Often paired with other concessions (like Carer Supplement, Energy Supplement)
Chapter 2: June 2025 Carer Payment Update
For June 2025, eligible recipients can expect fortnightly payments between $785 and $855, depending on income, assets, and whether the carer is single or partnered.
This increase reflects the regular indexation applied in March and September annually, as well as Cost-of-Living Supplements introduced to combat rising inflation in 2025.
Chapter 3: Who Is Eligible for the June 2025 Carer Payment?
To receive the Centrelink Carer Payment, you must meet a combination of personal, residency, and caring requirement thresholds.
3.1 Personal Eligibility
| Eligibility Criteria | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Age | At least 16 years old |
| Employment status | Unable to engage in substantial work |
| Residency | Must be an Australian citizen or permanent resident for 104 weeks |
| Income and Assets Test | Must meet set limits (see Chapter 6) |
3.2 Caring Requirement
- Provide constant care to someone with:
- A severe medical condition
- A significant disability
- Age-related frailty
- The person you care for must:
- Require care for at least 6 months
- Score above a threshold on the Adult Disability Assessment Tool (ADAT)
3.3 Who You Can Care For
- Parent or child
- Partner/spouse
- Relative or friend living in your household
- Someone in the community if you provide full-time care
Chapter 4: Updated Carer Payment Amounts – June 2025
| Recipient Type | Base Fortnightly Rate | Energy Supplement | Max Possible Payment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Single (no children) | $861.60 | $14.10 | $875.70 |
| Partnered (each) | $648.40 | $10.60 | $659.00 |
| Single (with dependent children) | $900.50 | $14.10 | $914.60 |
| Couple caring jointly | $1,296.80 combined | $21.20 combined | $1,318.00 combined |
Note: Payments may be lower ($785 range) if deductions apply due to part-time work or partner’s income.
Chapter 5: June 2025 Payment Dates
The next Centrelink Carer Payment is scheduled for:
| Fortnight Period | Payment Date |
|---|---|
| 3–16 June 2025 | Wednesday, 12 June |
| 17–30 June 2025 | Wednesday, 26 June |
Payments are deposited directly into the recipient’s nominated bank account. If payment falls on a public holiday, it may be made earlier.
Chapter 6: Income and Assets Test – June 2025 Thresholds
You must meet both tests to qualify for a full or part Carer Payment.
6.1 Income Test
| Situation | Maximum Fortnightly Income (Full Payment) |
|---|---|
| Single | $204 |
| Couple (combined) | $360 |
| Reduction starts at | $0.50 per $1 over threshold |
| Cut-off for singles | ~$2,401.60 fortnightly |
| Cut-off for couples | ~$3,666.80 combined |
6.2 Assets Test
| Situation | Homeowner | Non-homeowner |
|---|---|---|
| Single | $301,750 | $543,750 |
| Couple (combined) | $451,500 | $693,500 |
Chapter 7: Application and Verification Process
Applying for the Carer Payment can be done online via myGov or at a Centrelink service centre.
Steps:
- Link myGov to Centrelink
- Select “Apply for a Payment” > Carer Payment
- Upload required documents:
- Medical evidence (reports, diagnosis)
- Proof of residence
- Details about the person receiving care
- Centrelink reviews carer and care recipient eligibility
- Receive notification via myGov or post
Chapter 8: Carer Supplement, Allowance & Other Add-ons
In addition to the fortnightly Carer Payment, many carers may receive:
| Supplement/Allowance | Amount (2025) | Frequency |
|---|---|---|
| Carer Allowance | $153.50 | Fortnightly |
| Carer Supplement | $600 | Annually (July) |
| Energy Supplement | Up to $14.10 | Fortnightly |
| Rent Assistance | Up to $165.80 | Fortnightly |
These add-ons are automatic if you’re eligible—no need to apply separately.
Chapter 9: Real-Life Stories: Why This Payment Matters
Fatima’s Story – Caring for Her Mother with Dementia
“I had to leave my job to care full-time for my mum. Without the Carer Payment, we would be homeless. This payment keeps the lights on and gives me dignity.”
Jake and Lily – Parents to a Disabled Child
“The combined carer income helps us manage therapy, transport, and day-to-day expenses. It’s tough, but Centrelink support gives us room to breathe.”
Chapter 10: Carer Rights and Concessions
10.1 What You May Be Entitled To
- Health Care Card
- Concession transport fares
- Pensioner Education Supplement (if studying)
- Tax offsets (Carer Tax Offset)
10.2 Support Services
- Respite Care via Carer Gateway
- Mental Health Support
- NDIS Coordination for the person you care for
Chapter 11: Reporting Requirements & Compliance
- Income Reporting every fortnight if you have any employment
- Change in Caring Role (e.g., if hospitalization occurs for more than 63 days)
- Regular reviews every 1–2 years by Centrelink to ensure eligibility
Failure to update changes can result in overpayment and debt recovery.
Chapter 12: Comparative Benefits Table
| Benefit Type | Carer Payment | Disability Support Pension | Age Pension |
|---|---|---|---|
| Paid to | Carer | Disabled person | Retiree |
| Max Fortnightly Rate | $875.70 | $875.70 | $875.70 |
| Taxable | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Income Tested | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Assets Tested | Yes | Yes | Yes |
Conclusion
The $785–$855 Centrelink Carer Payment for June 2025 is not just a number—it’s a critical lifeline for thousands of Australians who dedicate their lives to caring for others. With rising inflation, housing costs, and healthcare needs, this payment ensures that carers are not left behind.
If you’re currently a carer or considering applying:
- Review the eligibility
- Update your records
- Use online tools like myGov and the Centrelink Express app
- And most importantly—seek support if you need help navigating the system
Australia’s carers deserve not only recognition but real, tangible support—and Centrelink’s updated payment helps provide just that.
FAQs
Q1: Can I receive both Carer Payment and Carer Allowance?
A: Yes. If eligible, you can receive both payments. Carer Allowance is a supplementary payment and not income tested.
Q2: What happens if I stop providing care temporarily?
A: You may continue receiving Carer Payment for up to 63 days if the care recipient is hospitalized or the carer is ill.
Q3: Do I need to reapply every year?
A: No. But Centrelink conducts periodic reviews. Keep your records up-to-date to avoid interruptions.
Q4: I work part-time. Am I still eligible?
A: Possibly. If your work does not exceed 25 hours per week, and your income remains under the limit, you can still qualify.
Q5: Will this payment affect my tax?
A: Yes, the Carer Payment is considered taxable income. It must be declared when lodging your tax return.
