Your Care

Carer Payment

In some situations, adults and children with disabilities and older people need full-time care and attention to remain in their own home. Carer payment (adult) and carer payment (child) are payments for carers who, because of the demands of their caring role, are unable to support themselves through full participation in the workforce. You do not have to be living in the same house as the person you are caring for.

The person you are caring for must either be receiving a full or part social security pension or payment, or a Veteran’s Affairs Service Pension or Partner Service Pension. If they are not receiving one of these payments you may still be eligible for this payment if the person you are caring for would qualify for one of these payments but have not lived in Australia long enough to qualify, or meets an income or asset test.

While you are receiving the Carer payment you are able to work up to 20 hours per week, though your income may reduce the level of your payment. If you are studying you may be eligible for a Pension Education Supplement. Rent Assistance may also be payable. You cannot receive this payment if you are getting another income support payment.