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Carer Payment
The Carer Payment provides an income support payment (similar to a pension) for people who are unable to participate in the paid workforce because they’re caring for someone who is frail and aged, or who has a severe medical condition or disability.
Basic conditions of eligibility
- The person you provide care for must suffer from a physical, intellectual or psychiatric disability.
- You cannot receive Carer Payment as well as another form of income support payment.
- The person you care for must receive social security income support OR a service pension OR they should meet the income and assets levels required to receive special care.
- The carer does not have to live with or near the person they care for, but the care must be constant.
- You also have to have your income and assets tested by Centrelink to qualify for this payment.
Basic rates of payment
A single carer receives $525.10 a fortnight, with a supplement of $18.30 per payment, and a couple receives $438.50 each per fortnight with a supplement of $15.30 each per payment. These amounts are paid fortnightly into the bank account of your choice.
Contact Centrelink or call them on 13 27 17 if you’d like to apply for the Carer Payment. Centrelink can also give you information about Rent Assistance, the Age Pension (more information) and concession cards.They also provide an independent financial planning service that’s free, whether or not you’re receiving a pension or benefit.
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