Parents to Get $948 a Week Under Centrelink’s New 2025 Plan. Families in Australia will soon receive more financial help thanks to the new Parental Leave Pay (PLP) update by the government.
Starting July 1, 2025, eligible parents will receive $948.10 per week before tax through Centrelink. This change ensures that parents taking time off to care for their newborn or recently adopted child can do so with less financial pressure.
“Parenting isn’t just about raising a child — it’s about building a foundation for the future. The $948 Centrelink Payment helps parents focus on family, not finances.”
Overview: Parents to Get $948 a Week Under Centrelink’s New 2025 Plan
| Particulars | Details |
| Scheme Name | Parental Leave Pay (Centrelink Payment 2025) |
| Department | Services Australia |
| Country | Australia |
| Update | Weekly payment increased to $948.10 before tax, starting July 1, 2025 |
| Beneficiaries | Primary caregivers of newborn or newly adopted children |
| Duration | Up to 24 weeks of payments |
| Additional Benefit | 12% superannuation contribution added automatically |
| Official Website | servicesaustralia.gov.au |
$948 Centrelink Payment
The $948 Centrelink Payment is an improved version of Australia’s Parental Leave Pay (PLP) program. It’s designed to give working parents financial stability while they take time off to care for their newborn or adopted child. The weekly payment has been increased to $948.10 before tax to align with the national minimum wage.
Parents can receive this amount for up to 24 weeks, ensuring they can bond with their baby without worrying about immediate income loss. The government has also included a 12% superannuation contribution, helping parents maintain long-term savings for their retirement while they’re on leave.
This update reflects Australia’s commitment to supporting family wellbeing, equality at work, and better work-life balance.
Key Benefits of the $948 Centrelink Payment
The 2025 update brings several advantages for parents and families:
- Financial Relief – Helps replace the income lost when taking parental leave.
- Retirement Savings Support – Includes 12% superannuation contribution.
- Work-Family Balance – Allows parents to focus on their child’s early development.
- Equal Access – Both mothers and fathers can apply, as long as eligibility conditions are met.
- Ease of Payment – Funds are directly deposited into the parent’s bank account.
This payment ensures that financial stress does not overshadow the joy of parenting during a child’s earliest days.
Eligibility
To receive the Centrelink Parental Leave Pay, applicants must meet several conditions set by Services Australia:
- Be the primary caregiver of a newborn or recently adopted child.
- Meet the income test defined by Services Australia.
- Satisfy the work test, which checks that you’ve worked for a required number of hours in the previous months.
- Be an Australian resident at the time of birth or adoption.
- Apply within the specified timeframe before or soon after the birth or adoption.
- Only one parent per child can receive the payment.
It’s important to note that the payment does not apply to days when the parent is working.
Apply for the $948 Centrelink Payment 2025
Applying for the Parental Leave Pay is a simple online process:
- Ensure you have an active myGov account linked to Services Australia.
- Go to the Parental Leave Pay section on your account.
- Complete the application form with accurate details.
- Upload necessary documents, such as proof of birth or adoption.
- Submit your application and wait for confirmation and approval.
Applicants are encouraged to apply early to make sure payments begin on time, ideally before your child’s due date or expected adoption date.
Important Details
- Amount: $948.10 per week before tax.
- Duration: Up to 24 weeks.
- Mode of Payment: Direct deposit to the parent’s bank account.
- Taxable: Yes, the payment is subject to income tax.
- Superannuation: An additional 12% contribution by the government.
This financial support aims to give parents both immediate stability and long-term security.
How the $948 Payment Affects Other Benefits
Receiving the $948 Centrelink Payment may influence your eligibility for other government support programs. For instance, it could affect the Family Tax Benefit or the Child Care Subsidy if the total household income increases.
Parents must report all forms of income to Centrelink accurately. Failing to do so can lead to overpayments or future repayment obligations. Understanding how the Parental Leave Pay interacts with other benefits ensures that families stay compliant and financially informed.
Why This Update Matters
The government’s decision to raise the payment amount shows a strong commitment to supporting Australian families during one of the most crucial phases of life — early parenthood. By adjusting payments to match the minimum wage, the policy ensures that parents don’t fall behind financially while caring for their child.
It also helps reduce inequality, allowing both parents, regardless of gender, to take leave and share childcare responsibilities.
This initiative is part of Australia’s broader family welfare reform, reflecting a society that values both economic participation and family care.
The Bigger Picture
In today’s fast-paced work culture, many parents struggle to balance professional and family responsibilities. The $948 Centrelink Payment recognizes this challenge and offers a realistic solution.
It helps parents:
- Take the time they need for family bonding.
- Avoid debt or financial stress during parental leave.
- Continue contributing to superannuation even while not working.
Ultimately, this update strengthens both families and the nation’s future workforce by supporting parents at a crucial time.
FAQs: Parents to Get $948 a Week Under Centrelink’s New 2025 Plan
When will the new $948 Centrelink Payment start?
The updated rate begins on July 1, 2025.
How long can parents receive the payment?
Eligible parents can receive up to 24 weeks of payments.
Is the $948 payment taxable?
Yes, the amount is taxable and will appear in your income statements.
Can both parents claim the payment?
No. Only one parent per child can receive the payment at a time.
Does it include superannuation?
Yes, the government automatically adds a 12% superannuation contribution with each payment.
