The Centrelink Carer Payment for October 2025 provides necessary support for Australians who have caring responsibilities for someone who has a profound disability, a severe medical condition, or who is frail aged. This guide aims to summarize the Carer Payment eligibility criteria, the payment details, how to claim the payment, and the updates relevant to Carers for October.
Who is Eligible to Receive the Carer Payment?
The Carer Payment is relevant for Australian residents, when both the Carer and the care recipient are residents. The Carer also needs to provide care on a daily basis for a minimum of six months and pass the mean (income and asset) tests. During the application, the care recipient must have appropriate medical documentation that verifies the person receives constant supervision. This is confirmed during the application process.
What Will The Payment Be in October 2025?
In October 2025, regular Carer Payment receivers will receive additional payment. The Carer Payment will be indexed to the inflation monthly and paid out every fortnight. For instance, a single Carer will receive a minimum payment of $1,079.70 per fortnight compared to partnered Carers who receive $813.90 each. In addition to the regular amounts, payments for October 2025 also includes a one-off $750 cost of living bonus for Centrelink eligible, including caregivers. Bonuses, indexed adjustments, and special supplements added to some payments can total $1,300.
| Payment Type | Amount (AUD) |
|---|---|
| Regular Carer Payment | $1,079.70 |
| Partnered (each) | $813.90 |
| Cost of Living Bonus | $750 |
No-Hassle Application Process
Existing recipients somewhat seamlessly receive payments and bonuses. In contrast, new applicants, or those currently not registered for the age pension, will need to go online to the myGov portal, register with Services Australia over the phone or in-person, or go to a Services Australia office. The steps in the process are pretty standard and include
- Creation of a myGov account or logging in and linking to Centrelink.
- Completing an online claim for “Carer Payment.”
- Preparing and uploading documents for proof of identity, finances, and medical documentation from the caregiver’s health professionals.
- Submitting the claim and checking its status online.
Tailored for October 2025 Key Dates
These payments are done in intervals of 14 days. Dates that payments will drop in October 2025 include the 2nd, 16th, and 30th. Most automated payments for returning recipients will come as scheduled, and after processing, the funds will be ready in the recipients’ designated accounts.
Avoiding Issues
- Unnecessary delays or overpayments can be avoided in myGov by keeping details current.
- You can see your payment histories and receive instant notifications using the Express Plus Centrelink app.
- When submitting new applications, respond quickly to any follow-up requests from Services Australia. Also, ensure that you have adequate documentation, including any supporting documents that may be necessary.
FAQs
Q. Can both parents claim the Carer Payment for the same child?
Generally, only one primary carer can claim the payment for a recipient at a time.
Q. Is the October 2025 bonus automatic for carers?
If you currently receive a qualifying payment, the bonus is paid automatically. Nothing else is required on your end.
Q. What happens if eligibility is lost mid-year?
Payments will stop if there are changes to your income, assets, or residency status. Recipients must report these changes in a timely manner.
