$948 Centrelink Payment 2025: In 2025, the Australian Government is rolling out a significant increase to the Parental Leave Pay (PLP) benefit managed via Centrelink: a weekly pre-tax payment of $948.10. This step is aimed at providing stronger financial support to new parents or guardians during the early weeks of caring for a newborn or newly adopted child.
The change reflects efforts to better align social support with living costs, support gender equality in caregiving, and ease financial burdens on families. In this blog, we will walk through what the new $948 payment means, who qualifies, important dates, how to apply, how it interacts with other benefits, and some common questions.
$948 Centrelink Payment 2025-Overview
| Article on | $948 Centrelink Payment 2025: Check Eligibility & Payment Dates |
| Payment Name | $948 Centrelink Parental Leave Pay (PLP) 2025 |
| Start Date | 1 July 2025 |
| Weekly Amount | $948.10 (before tax) |
| Duration | Up to 24 weeks |
| Eligibility | Australian residents who are primary carers meeting work & income tests |
What Is the $948 Centrelink Payment for 2025?
- This payment is an enhanced Parental Leave Pay (PLP) benefit, effective from 1 July 2025, replacing the existing lower rate.
- It provides $948.10 per week (before tax) to eligible parents who take time off work to look after a newborn or recently adopted child.
- The intention is to partially compensate for lost income while a parent acts as the main caregiver and is on leave.
- This benefit is valid for up to 24 weeks (i.e. roughly six months), depending on eligibility, application timing, and the child’s birth or adoption date.
- A 12 % superannuation contribution is also added on top of the weekly payment, helping maintain retirement savings even during parental leave.
Eligibility Criteria
To receive the $948 Centrelink payment in 2025, you must satisfy several requirements. Below is a breakdown:
1. Primary Caregiver Role
You must be the primary carer of a newborn or recently adopted child during your leave period. Only one parent or guardian can receive the PLP per child—not both at the same time.
2. Residency & Citizenship
You must be an Australian resident or hold an eligible visa status when the child is born or adopted. You need to meet the usual residency rules applied by Services Australia.
3. Work Test / Work History
You must satisfy the work test, which typically requires having worked a certain minimum number of hours, or meeting employment conditions (e.g. full-time, part-time, or casual) over a specified period prior to the baby’s arrival or adoption.
4. Income Test / Means Test
Your income must fall within limits set by Services Australia. Exceeding certain thresholds could disqualify you or reduce the amount you receive.
“The $948 Centrelink Payment 2025 isn’t just financial aid — it’s a step toward empowering families, supporting parents, and building a fairer start for every child.”
5. Application Timeframe & Documentation
You must file your claim within the prescribed claiming window—usually not too late after the birth or adoption. You will need to submit supporting documents such as birth certificates, proof of adoption (if applicable), identity verification, and prior employment records.
6. Not Working Simultaneously for Paid Periods
The PLP is meant to compensate for non-working periods if you work on a day when payment is supposed to be made, that day may not be paid under PLP.
Payment Schedule & Key Dates
- The new rate of $948.10/week (pre-tax) kicks in from 1 July 2025 onward.
- Applicants eligible under dates before that may receive transitional or prorated amounts (depending on their birth/adoption dates relative to 1 July).
- Payment runs up to 24 weeks, but eligibility depends on the individual’s claim date, child’s birth date, and how much paid leave or work you do during that period.
- The exact first payment date after approval will depend on processing time and banking cycles.
Final Thoughts
The $948 Centrelink Parental Leave Payment, beginning 1 July 2025, marks a substantial enhancement in Australia’s support for new parents. It aims to ease financial pressures, encourage equitable caregiving, and deliver meaningful assistance during the critical months after birth or adoption.
If you believe you may qualify, start preparing your documentation now, track the official Services Australia guidelines, apply within deadlines, and carefully manage any work or income during your leave. With informed planning, this benefit can provide real relief at an important time for your family.
FAQs for $948 Centrelink Payment 2025
What is the $948 Centrelink payment?
It’s the updated Parental Leave Pay (PLP) rate for 2025, providing $948.10 per week before tax to eligible parents caring for a newborn or adopted child.
When does the new payment start?
The new rate takes effect from 1 July 2025.
Who can claim this payment?
Eligible Australian residents who are the primary carer of a newborn or adopted child and meet the work and income tests.
How long can I receive it?
Up to 24 weeks (around six months), depending on your eligibility and claim timing.
Is the payment taxable?
Yes. The $948 weekly rate is before tax, and tax is withheld depending on your income bracket.
