The Australian Government provides a range of financial supports to carers who look after children with disability or severe medical conditions. Among these, the Annual Centrelink Child Disability Payment is a key benefit for eligible carers, designed to help with the additional costs associated with caring for a child with disability. This article explains the payment, eligibility, and other related supports available, with a focus on the 2025 payment cycle.
Centrelink Child Disability Payment Up to $1,000 Starts 3 July 2025
| Scheme Name | Payment Amount (2025) | Eligibility Criteria | Payment Frequency | Claim Required? |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Child Disability Assistance Payment | Up to $1,000 | Carer Allowance for child under 16, includes 1 July | Annual | No |
| Carer Supplement | Up to $600 | Eligible carer payment for period including 1 July | Annual | No |
| Carer Adjustment Payment | One-off | Carer of child under 7, severe disability/medical condition | One-off | Yes |
| Assistance for Isolated Children | Varies | Child cannot attend local school (disability/geography) | Periodic | Yes |
Overview of the Child Disability Assistance Payment
The Child Disability Assistance Payment is an annual, automatic payment provided to carers who receive Carer Allowance for a child under 16 years of age. For the 2025 payment year, carers eligible for this benefit will receive up to $1,000 per eligible child. The payment is made automatically into the nominated bank account between 3 July and 1 August 2025, provided the carer was receiving Carer Allowance for a period that includes 1 July
Who is Eligible?
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for the Child Disability Assistance Payment, you must:
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Receive Carer Allowance for a child younger than 16.
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Have been eligible for Carer Allowance for a period that includes 1 July of the payment year.
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Be providing care for a child with disability or a severe medical condition.
There is no need to claim this payment; it is paid automatically if you meet the criteria.
How and When is the Payment Made?
Payment Schedule
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Payment Amount: Up to $1,000 per eligible child.
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Payment Period: Automatically paid between 3 July and 1 August each year.
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No Claim Needed: The payment is automatic if you are eligible.
Other Support for Carers
Additional Payments and Supports
Carers of children with disability may also be eligible for other payments, including:
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Carer Supplement: An annual payment of up to $600 to help with the costs of caring for someone with disability or a medical condition. This is also paid automatically if you receive an eligible payment for a period that includes 1 July.
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Carer Adjustment Payment: A one-off payment for carers of children under 7 years old with a severe medical condition or major disability following a catastrophic event. This requires a claim and proof of strong financial need.
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Health Care Card: Eligible children receive a Health Care Card, which provides concessions on health care costs.
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Assistance for Isolated Children Scheme: For children who cannot attend a local government school due to disability, special needs, or geographical isolation.
Early Intervention and NDIS Support
Early Intervention Support
Early intervention services are available for children with disability or special needs, including support for diagnosis and ongoing care. The National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) provides funding to improve quality of life for people with disability, and the NDIS early childhood early intervention approach supports children under 7 with disability or developmental delay.
How to Manage and Report Changes
Reporting and Managing Your Payment
If you are receiving carer payments, you must report any changes in your circumstances within 14 days. This includes changes to your income, assets, care arrangements, or if the child moves overseas or dies3. You can report these changes online via your Centrelink account linked to myGov or by contacting Services Australia4.
Support Services for Carers
Carer Gateway
Carer Gateway is an Australian Government program that offers free services and support for carers, including peer support groups, counselling, and support packages. For more information, visit carergateway.gov.au or call 1800 422 737.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Do I need to claim the Child Disability Assistance Payment?
No, the payment is automatic if you are eligible and receive Carer Allowance for a child under 16 for a period that includes 1 July.
2. When will the payment be made in 2025?
The payment will be made between 3 July and 1 August 2025.
3. What other support is available for carers of children with disability?
Other supports include the Carer Supplement, Carer Adjustment Payment, Health Care Card, and early intervention services through the NDIS.
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