Increased flexibility for Carer payment recipients
As part of the 2024 Federal Budget, an announcement may make more carers eligible for government assistance and support.
A 2024 Federal Budget announcement will allow greater flexibility for you if you are receiving Carer payment. Also, the announcement may mean that you will become eligible when you previously were unable to claim.
Review of the new rules
From 20 March 2025, the following changes will apply for recipients of Carer payment:
Recipients will be able to work up to 100 hours over a 4-week period before it affects their payment.
The participation limit will no longer apply for volunteering, studying, training or travel time. Employed and self-employed work (including meal breaks) will still be included.
Recipients who exceed the new participation limit and have used their allowable respite care days in a calendar year, will have their payments suspended for up to 6 months rather than cancelled.
Recipients will be able to use a single temporary cessation of care day when they exceed the participation limit, rather than the current 7 days minimum.
Further to this, you may have extra opportunities to be eligible for a Carer payment if you are eligible to claim Working credits or the Work bonus.
Eligibility for Carer payment
Access to Carer payment is available if you:
provide constant care for someone who needs care for at least 6 months, or
are caring for someone at the end of their life.
You and the individual being cared for must be Australian residents and be living in Australia, subject to certain exemptions.
There is also an income and assets tests that must be passed in order to receive Carer payment, which is the same limits as the Age Pension.
Please let us know if you need these rates and we can assist you in determining your eligibility.
BE THE FIRST TO KNOW
Subscribe to receive future reports.
Complete the form below to receive timely and insightful information directly to your inbox.
