When life takes an unexpected turn and you find yourself caring for a child whose parents can no longer provide care, the financial burden can feel overwhelming. That’s where Australia’s Double Orphan Pension steps in to offer crucial support during these challenging times.
What Exactly Is Double Orphan Pension?
Double Orphan Pension is a special payment from the Australian government designed specifically for people who are caring for children in extraordinary circumstances. Unlike many other government payments, this one comes with no strings attached regarding your income or assets – it’s purely there to help you provide the best care possible for the children in your care.
The payment recognizes that raising children who have lost their parents or whose parents cannot care for them requires extra financial support. Whether you’re a grandparent, aunt, uncle, family friend, or foster carer, this pension acknowledges the important role you’re playing in a child’s life.
Who Can Access This Support?
Requirements for Carers
To qualify for Double Orphan Pension, you’ll need to meet several straightforward criteria. First and foremost, you must be an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or hold specific visa types like a Protected Special Category Visa. The government wants to ensure this support goes to people who are established in Australia.
You don’t need to be the child’s full-time carer to qualify. As long as you’re providing care for at least 35% of the time – roughly two and a half days per week – you may be eligible. This flexible approach recognizes that many families share caring responsibilities.
Importantly, you must be receiving or eligible for Family Tax Benefit Part A for the child. If your income is too high for Family Tax Benefit, you might still qualify if you’re receiving certain education payments like ABSTUDY.
Child Eligibility Criteria
The children you’re caring for must be under 16 years old, or up to 19 if they’re still in full-time secondary education. The pension specifically covers children in these situations:
Both parents have passed away, leaving the child without their primary caregivers. Alternatively, one parent has died while the other faces serious circumstances that prevent them from providing care – such as serving a prison sentence of 10 years or more, being permanently admitted to a psychiatric facility, or having been missing for at least six months.
The pension also extends to refugee children whose parents aren’t present in Australia or aren’t in contact with the child.
Financial Support You Can Count On
Current Payment Rates
As of 2025, Double Orphan Pension provides $79.90 every two weeks for each eligible child in your care. This represents an increase from the previous year’s $77.00, reflecting the government’s commitment to keeping pace with rising living costs.
What makes this payment particularly valuable is that it’s completely tax-free. You won’t need to declare it on your tax return, and it won’t affect your other government payments or benefits. The payment amount doesn’t change based on your income, savings, or property – it’s the same for everyone who qualifies.
If you’re caring for multiple eligible children, you’ll receive $79.90 for each child. For example, caring for three children would mean receiving $239.70 every fortnight.
Additional Benefits You Can Combine
Double Orphan Pension works alongside other government support payments, potentially providing substantial financial assistance. You can receive Family Tax Benefit Part A or B simultaneously, which could add hundreds of dollars per fortnight depending on the child’s age and your circumstances.
Child Care Subsidy can help with daycare and after-school care costs, while a Health Care Card provides discounted prescription medications and medical services. These combined benefits can make a real difference in your ability to provide comprehensive care.
How and When You’ll Receive Payments
Payment Schedule
Most recipients receive their Double Orphan Pension every two weeks, aligned with their existing Centrelink payment schedule. The money goes directly into your nominated bank account, or you can receive it through Centrelink’s payment card system.
If you’re temporarily overseas, payments shift to a monthly schedule, giving you flexibility while traveling or living abroad temporarily.
Payment dates can vary slightly during public holidays. For instance, if a payment date falls on Australia Day, you might receive your money a day or two earlier. During busy periods like Christmas and Easter, there might be minor delays, so it’s worth planning accordingly.
Managing Your Payments
Keep track of your payments by checking your bank account regularly. If a payment seems delayed or incorrect, contact Centrelink promptly. Most payment issues can be resolved quickly when reported early.
Consider setting up direct debit for regular expenses like school fees or medical costs. This can help ensure the money goes directly toward the child’s needs without getting mixed up with your other finances.
Step-by-Step Application Process
Getting Your Documents Ready
Before starting your application, gather all necessary paperwork. You’ll need identification documents like your passport or driver’s license, the child’s birth certificate, and documentation proving the parents’ circumstances – such as death certificates, court orders, or official prison sentences.
If you have legal guardianship, include those court documents. Proof of residence, like utility bills or lease agreements, helps establish your living situation.
Submitting Your Application
The quickest way to apply is online through myGov. Log into your account, link your Centrelink services, and look for the Double Orphan Pension application under “Payments and Claims.” The online system guides you through each step and lets you upload documents directly.
Alternatively, visit a Centrelink office where staff can help you complete the paperwork in person. This can be particularly helpful if your situation is complex or you’re unsure about any requirements.
Phone applications are also possible by calling the Centrelink Families Line on 136 150. Staff can complete the application over the phone and tell you what documents to send by mail.
After You Apply
Once submitted, you’ll receive a reference number to track your application’s progress. Online applications typically process fastest, usually taking two to four weeks for a decision.
During processing, Centrelink might contact you for additional information or clarification. Responding quickly helps avoid delays in your application.
Keeping Your Payments Current
Reporting Changes
Your circumstances might change while receiving Double Orphan Pension, and it’s crucial to report these changes promptly. If the child’s living arrangements change, their education status shifts, or their parents’ circumstances alter, let Centrelink know immediately.
Changes in your own situation – like moving house, changing bank accounts, or your relationship status – also need reporting. While these might not affect your Double Orphan Pension eligibility, they could impact other payments you receive.
Annual Updates
Before each new year, update your contact details, bank account information, and address through myGov. This simple step helps ensure your payments continue smoothly and you receive important correspondence.
If the child starts or stops school, changes schools, or their care arrangements shift, report these changes as soon as possible.
Making the Most of Your Support
Budgeting for Child Care Expenses
While $79.90 every two weeks might not cover all expenses, strategic budgeting can maximize its impact. Consider setting aside portions for different needs – perhaps $40 for school-related expenses, $25 for healthcare costs, and $15 for clothing and activities.
Many carers find it helpful to open a separate account specifically for the Double Orphan Pension, making it easier to track how the money is spent on the child’s needs.
Planning for the Future
Remember that Double Orphan Pension eligibility ends when the child turns 16 (or 19 if still in school). Start planning for this transition early by exploring other support options, vocational training opportunities, or ways to help the young person develop independence.
Consider discussing future plans with the child as they grow older, helping them understand the support available and encouraging their involvement in decision-making about their education and career goals.
Staying Safe from Scams
Unfortunately, government payment scams are increasingly common. Only access Double Orphan Pension information through official channels – the Services Australia website (servicesaustralia.gov.au) or verified social media accounts.
Never provide personal information or payment details through unsolicited phone calls, text messages, or emails. Centrelink will never ask for your banking details or personal information through these methods.
If you receive suspicious communications claiming to be from Centrelink, report them to Services Australia’s scam reporting service. This helps protect other vulnerable families from falling victim to fraud.