Caring for someone with a disability, medical condition, or who is frail due to age can be emotionally and financially demanding. To ease the burden, the Australian government provides a Carer Allowance of $320 per month (approximately $89.70 per fortnight), offered to eligible individuals who provide daily care and assistance to someone in need. This support is not income-tested and can be claimed in addition to other Centrelink payments such as the Carer Payment or Age Pension.
What Is the Carer Allowance and How Much Is Paid?
The Carer Allowance is a supplementary payment made fortnightly to people who provide ongoing care to someone with a serious illness, disability, or age-related condition. Unlike the Carer Payment, which is income- and asset-tested, the Carer Allowance is a non-means-tested benefit. As of 2025, recipients receive around $320 per month, equating to $89.70 every two weeks.
Additionally, a Carer Supplement of $600 is paid once a year in July to eligible recipients. This supplement helps cover extra costs associated with caregiving, such as transport, medical appointments, and daily necessities.
Who Is Eligible for the Carer Allowance?
To receive the allowance, carers must meet several conditions related to both the caregiver and the care recipient. The care provided must be frequent, ongoing, and essential to the individual’s daily functioning.
Eligibility requirements include:
- The carer must provide care for someone with a recognised medical condition or disability.
- The person receiving care must score high enough on the Adult Disability Assessment Determination (ADAD) or the Disability Care Load Assessment (for children).
- The care must be provided for a minimum of 20 hours per week.
- Both the carer and care recipient must live in Australia and meet residency requirements.
Monthly Carer Allowance Overview – Key Details
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Payment Amount | $320 per month (approx. $89.70 per fortnight) |
| Annual Supplement | $600 paid in July |
| Income/Asset Tested | No (non-means-tested) |
| Care Duration Requirement | Minimum 20 hours per week |
| Residency Requirement | Must be an Australian resident |
| Claiming Platform | Centrelink via MyGov or paper application |
How to Claim the Carer Allowance
Carers can apply online through Centrelink using their MyGov account. Before starting the application, you’ll need medical evidence or assessments completed by a health professional that confirms the care needs of the person you’re supporting. Once submitted, Services Australia reviews the application and notifies you of the outcome, typically within 21–35 days.
You can also submit a paper application if online access is limited. It’s important to keep all relevant documents updated, especially if the care arrangement or medical condition changes.