From October 1, 2025, eligible parents in Australia can receive a weekly Parental Leave Pay (PLP) of $948.10 before tax through Services Australia. This payment is designed to provide financial support to parents taking time off work to care for a newborn or recently adopted child.
The new rate aligns with the national minimum wage and is part of the government’s broader plan to support families during this critical stage of life. This guide covers the weekly payment, eligibility rules, application process, and key dates to help parents make the most of this program.
Overview
The Parental Leave Pay (PLP) is administered by Services Australia and replaces the lost income of parents who temporarily step away from work to care for their child.
| Organization | Services Australia |
|---|---|
| Program Name | Parental Leave Pay (Centrelink Payment) |
| Country | Australia |
| Weekly Amount | $948.10 (before tax) |
| Duration | Up to 24 weeks |
| Beneficiaries | Main caregiver of newborn/adopted child |
| Official Website | www.servicesaustralia.gov.au/ |
The PLP ensures parents have immediate financial support while also including a 12% superannuation contribution to promote long-term retirement savings even during parental leave.
How the $948 Payment Supports Parents
The PLP program provides two main benefits:
- Short-term financial relief – Parents can cover daily expenses and focus on childcare.
- Long-term financial security – Automatic superannuation contributions help secure retirement funds.
The program emphasizes helping families balance work responsibilities and family care without financial stress.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for the Parental Leave Pay, applicants must meet specific requirements:
- Be the primary caregiver of a newborn or newly adopted child.
- Meet the income test as set by Services Australia.
- Satisfy the work test, which requires having worked a minimum number of hours prior to applying.
- Be an Australian resident at the time of birth or adoption.
- Submit a claim within the specified timeframe.
Important: Only one parent per child can receive the PLP, and payments are not provided for days when the parent is working.
How to Apply for the $948 Centrelink Payment 2025
Parents are advised to apply early to ensure timely processing of payments. The application process is straightforward:
- Ensure you have an active myGov account linked to Services Australia.
- Navigate to the Parental Leave Pay section and complete the online application form.
- Upload required documents, such as a birth certificate or adoption papers.
- Services Australia will verify your application and notify you of the outcome.
Once approved, payments are deposited directly into your bank account and continue for up to 24 weeks, depending on the date of birth or adoption.
Key Features of the $948 Payment
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Weekly Amount | $948.10 before tax |
| Payment Duration | Up to 24 weeks |
| Payment Method | Direct deposit into bank account |
| Tax | Subject to income tax |
| Superannuation | 12% contribution automatically included |
The program ensures parents have financial stability during the early months of caring for their child while continuing to save for retirement.
Interaction With Other Benefits
Receiving the $948 Centrelink Payment may affect eligibility for other government benefits, such as:
- Family Tax Benefit
- Child Care Subsidy
Additional income from PLP may reduce other payments, so it is crucial to report all income accurately to Services Australia. This helps prevent overpayments and ensures compliance with eligibility rules.
Summary
The $948 Centrelink Parental Leave Pay is designed to support parents taking time off work to care for their newborn or adopted child. By meeting eligibility requirements and following the application process, parents can receive weekly payments for up to 24 weeks, along with superannuation contributions, helping them manage family costs and plan for the future.
FAQs
Q1: How long can I receive the $948 Centrelink Payment?
You can receive payments for up to 24 weeks, depending on your child’s birth or adoption date.
Q2: Can both parents receive the payment?
No, only the primary caregiver of the child is eligible to receive PLP.
Q3: How do I apply for the Parental Leave Pay?
Apply online via myGov, link your account to Services Australia, and submit required documents.
