Caring for a child who has lost their parents or whose parents cannot provide care is both emotionally challenging and financially demanding. The Australian government recognizes these difficulties and provides support through the Double Orphan Pension – a vital financial lifeline for families in extraordinary circumstances.
In 2025, this non-taxable payment has increased to $79.90 per fortnight per child, reflecting the government’s commitment to supporting vulnerable families during their most challenging times. Whether you’re a grandparent, aunt, uncle, foster parent, or legal guardian, understanding how this pension works could make a significant difference in your ability to provide for a child in need.
What is the Double Orphan Pension?
The Double Orphan Pension is a fortnightly government payment designed specifically for caregivers who are raising children that cannot be cared for by their biological or adoptive parents. Unlike many other social security payments, this pension is not income or asset tested, making it accessible regardless of your financial situation.
This payment serves as recognition of the additional costs and responsibilities that come with caring for children in these circumstances. From school supplies costing $150-$300 per term to medical appointments averaging $80-$100 each, every bit of support helps create stability for children who have already faced significant challenges.
Who Qualifies for the Double Orphan Pension in 2025?
Caregiver Requirements
To be eligible as a caregiver, you must meet several important criteria:
You need to provide care for the child for at least 35% of the time throughout the year. This translates to approximately 2.5 days per week or more, giving you flexibility in shared care arrangements while ensuring the child receives substantial support from you.
Your residency status must meet Australian requirements. You can qualify if you’re an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or hold specific eligible temporary visas such as a Protected Special Category Visa.
You cannot be receiving other Centrelink payments for the same child, such as Parenting Payment specifically for that child, or an Orphan Pension from the Department of Veterans’ Affairs. However, you can combine the Double Orphan Pension with many other benefits.
Child Requirements
The child you’re caring for must be under 16 years old, or up to 19 years old if they’re enrolled in full-time secondary education. They must also meet at least one of these specific circumstances:
Both biological or adoptive parents have died. This is the most straightforward qualification, where children have tragically lost both parents and need ongoing care and support.
One parent has died, and the other parent cannot provide care due to being imprisoned for 10 years or more, permanently residing in a psychiatric institution or nursing home, or having disappeared with their whereabouts unknown.
The child has refugee status and their parents are outside Australia or their location is unknown, making it impossible for the parents to provide care.
2025 Payment Rates and Schedule
| Payment Details | Amount/Information |
|---|---|
| Fortnightly Rate | $79.90 per child |
| Annual Increase | 3.8% from 2024 |
| Payment Method | Direct bank deposit |
| Taxable Status | Non-taxable |
| Income Test | None |
| Asset Test | None |
| Payment Frequency | Every 2 weeks (Australia) |
| Overseas Payment | Every 4 weeks |
The $79.90 fortnightly payment represents an increase from $77.00 in 2024, reflecting the 3.8% inflation rate and rising living costs. This adjustment helps ensure the payment maintains its purchasing power and continues to provide meaningful support.
If you’re caring for multiple eligible children, you’ll receive $79.90 for each child, with payments made simultaneously every fortnight. For recipients living overseas, payments are consolidated and made every 4 weeks.
How to Apply for the Double Orphan Pension
Gathering Required Documents
Before starting your application, collect these essential documents:
The child’s birth certificate to verify their identity and age. You’ll also need death certificates for deceased parents or legal documentation proving the other parent’s inability to care for the child, such as court orders, medical reports, or prison sentences.
Proof of your relationship to the child through birth certificates, guardianship papers, or adoption documents. If the child is over 16, include school enrollment letters confirming their full-time secondary education status.
Application Methods
Online Application: The fastest method involves logging into your myGov account, linking your Centrelink account, and completing the Double Orphan Pension form (FA011) under “Payments and Claims.” This method provides immediate confirmation and tracking capabilities.
In-Person Application: Visit any Centrelink office and submit form SC003 with your supporting documents. Staff can assist with completing the form and answer questions about eligibility.
Phone Application: Call the Centrelink Families Line at 136 150 for assistance or to request application forms. This option works well if you need guidance through the process.
Mail Application: Send completed forms and documents to Services Australia Families, Reply Paid 7802, Canberra BC ACT 2610. Allow extra processing time for mailed applications.
Processing Timeline and Tips
Applications typically take 2-4 weeks for processing, though complex cases may require additional time. Centrelink may contact you for supplementary information, so respond promptly to avoid delays.
To ensure smooth processing, double-check that every section of your form is completed accurately and all required documents are included. Keep copies of everything you submit and note your reference number for tracking purposes.
Maximizing Your Support
Combining Benefits
The Double Orphan Pension works alongside other government benefits to provide comprehensive support. You can simultaneously receive Family Tax Benefit Part A or B, which could add up to $182.84 fortnightly for children under 13, depending on your circumstances.
Child Care Subsidy can help with childcare costs, while a Health Care Card provides discounted medical services and prescriptions. In 2024, approximately 70% of Double Orphan Pension recipients also received Family Tax Benefit, demonstrating how these programs work together.
Important Payment Information
Your fortnightly payment arrives on specific dates aligned with your other Centrelink benefits. Key dates for 2025 include January 9 for the first payment, with subsequent payments every 2 weeks. For overseas recipients, the first 4-weekly payment is scheduled for June 26.
During holiday periods like Christmas or Easter, payments may arrive 1-2 days early to ensure you have access to funds when banks are closed. Always monitor your bank account and allow 1-2 days for processing, especially around public holidays.
Managing Your Pension Effectively
Budgeting Strategies
Create a detailed budget that prioritizes the child’s essential needs: education expenses, healthcare costs, nutritious food, appropriate clothing, and stable housing. The $79.90 fortnightly payment, while modest, can significantly help with specific costs like school supplies or medical appointments.
Consider setting aside a small portion each payment for unexpected expenses, such as urgent medical needs or school excursions. Many successful caregivers find that planning ahead for larger expenses, like school uniforms or textbooks, helps stretch the payment further.
Staying Informed and Protected
Only use official government websites like servicesaustralia.gov.au or verified Centrelink social media channels. In 2024, over 2,000 recipients reported fake SMS scams attempting to steal personal information by promising to “release” additional funds.
Report any changes in circumstances immediately, including modifications to care arrangements, residency status, or the child’s education situation. Prompt reporting helps maintain your eligibility and prevents potential payment issues.
Real Impact Stories
The Double Orphan Pension supported over 10,000 children across Australia in 2024, with 60% of caregivers using the funds primarily for education and healthcare expenses. While $79.90 every 2 weeks may seem modest, it provides crucial support during challenging times.
Many caregivers report that combining the Double Orphan Pension with other available benefits creates a more stable financial foundation for providing quality care. The non-taxable nature means every dollar goes directly toward supporting the child’s needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. Can I receive the Double Orphan Pension for multiple children?
A. Yes, you receive $79.90 per fortnight for each eligible child in your care.
Q. Is this payment taxable?
A. No, the Double Orphan Pension is completely non-taxable income.
Q. Can foster parents apply?
A. Yes, foster parents can apply if they meet all eligibility criteria and provide care for at least 35% of the time.
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