Raising a child without the support of parents comes with immense emotional and financial challenges. To help caregivers in this difficult role, the Australian Government offers the Centrelink Double Orphan Pension a special financial aid package designed to support guardians caring for children who have lost both parents or cannot be raised by them due to exceptional circumstances.
This guide breaks down everything you need to know about the Double Orphan Pension 2025, including payment rates, eligibility criteria, how to apply, and key dates.
What Is the Double Orphan Pension?
The Centrelink Double Orphan Pension is a non-taxable, income-independent payment provided every two weeks to eligible carers of orphaned children. It is managed by Services Australia through Centrelink and aims to ease the financial burden on guardians who step up during the toughest of times.
The program is unique because it does not require income or asset tests, making it more accessible to caregivers regardless of financial background.
Who Can Receive the Double Orphan Pension?
To qualify for the Double Orphan Pension in 2025, both the caregiver and the child must meet specific conditions. Here’s a breakdown:
Eligibility Requirements:
- The caregiver must be an Australian resident.
- The child’s biological or adoptive parents are both deceased, or:
- One parent has died, and the other is either unknown, legally missing, or cannot care for the child (e.g., due to refugee status or incarceration).
- The caregiver must:
- Have legal custody or guardianship of the child.
- Be eligible for Family Tax Benefit (FTB) Part A, or meet FTB exemption conditions.
- The child must:
- Be under 16 years old, or:
- Be between 16 and 19 and enrolled in full-time education.
- Both the caregiver and the child must be living in Australia at the time of the claim.
Double Orphan Pension Payment Amount for 2025
As of the latest update in 2025, eligible caregivers will receive $79.90 every two weeks per child. While this may seem modest, the government increased the amount from $77.00 to adjust for cost-of-living pressures.
Quick Overview:
| Benefit Name | Double Orphan Pension |
|---|---|
| Amount (2025) | $79.90 every two weeks |
| Taxable? | No (tax-free) |
| Means-tested? | No income/asset test required |
| Application Mode | Online, phone, or in-person |
| Processing Time | 2 to 4 weeks |
| Official Website | servicesaustralia.gov.au |
Centrelink Double Orphan Pension Payout Dates 2025
The Double Orphan Pension is generally paid every two weeks, but some recipients living outside of Australia may receive payments every four weeks.
For example, June 26, 2025, is one of the confirmed payout dates. Always check your Centrelink or myGov account for personalized updates and notifications.
How to Apply for the Double Orphan Pension in 2025
Applying for the Double Orphan Pension is simple if you follow the proper steps. Here’s how to get started:
Steps to Claim:
- Confirm Eligibility: Review the criteria listed above.
- Prepare Documents:
- Child’s birth certificate.
- Proof of parents’ death or documents showing inability to care.
- Residency or visa documentation.
- Evidence of legal custody or guardianship.
- Submit Application:
- Apply online via myGov linked to Centrelink.
- Or visit a Services Australia service center in person.
- Or mail your completed form to Services Australia.
- Wait for Processing:
- Typical wait time is 2 to 4 weeks.
- You may be asked for additional documents.
Fact Check & Important Reminders
- The payment is not taxed, and no proof of income or assets is required.
- The Double Orphan Pension can be received alongside other family benefits, such as Family Tax Benefit Part A.
- You must provide at least 35% of the child’s daily care to qualify.
Final Thoughts
The Double Orphan Pension 2025 represents a crucial financial and emotional lifeline for Australian guardians who are raising children without parents. Whether you’re a grandparent, extended family member, or legal carer, understanding how to access this support can make a real difference in your ability to provide a stable and nurturing home.
Don’t miss out on the support you’re entitled to check your eligibility and file your claim today.
