Australian parents can receive around $948 per week in government support, but this amount usually comes from a combination of multiple Centrelink family payments rather than a single flat-rate benefit. Understanding how the new Parental Leave Pay (PLP) rate works in 2026—and how it combines with Parenting Payment and the Family Tax Benefit (FTB)—is essential to ensure families receive all the financial support they are entitled to.
What Is the $948 Weekly Centrelink Payment?
The widely reported $948 weekly payment mainly refers to the updated rate of Parental Leave Pay (PLP), which will be about $948.10 per week in 2026 for a standard five-day working week.
This payment is tied to Australia’s national minimum wage and is designed to replace a basic level of income for parents who take time off work to care for a newborn or newly adopted child.
Depending on the arrangement, Services Australia (Centrelink) may pay Parental Leave Pay through an employer or directly into a parent’s bank account. It is treated differently from other family payments such as Parenting Payment or Family Tax Benefit. Because of this, some families may receive PLP together with other Centrelink payments during the same period if they meet the eligibility rules and income tests.
Major Payments That May Total Around $948 Per Week
Many media reports describing a “$948 Centrelink payment” are actually referring to a combination of government benefits that together may reach or exceed this amount for certain families.
Parental Leave Pay (PLP) – Around $948.10 per week for eligible working parents taking approved parental leave.
Parenting Payment – Income support for the main carer of a dependent child. From September 2025, the maximum rate for a single parent is $998.20 plus a $29.50 supplement per fortnight (about $1,027.70 per fortnight or roughly $513 per week before adjustments).
Family Tax Benefit (FTB) – Ongoing financial help with the cost of raising children.
When combining weekly Parental Leave Pay with the weekly equivalent of Parenting Payment and Family Tax Benefit, some lower-income families may receive total assistance exceeding $948 per week. However, the exact amount depends on income levels, the number of children, and the ages of those children.
Sample Payment Rates for Parents (2025–26)
Payment Type
Example Maximum Rate (2025-26)
Notes
Parental Leave Pay
$948.10 per week (2026)
Available to working parents who meet work and income tests.
Parenting Payment
$998.20 + $29.50 supplement per fortnight (approx. $1,027.70)
Income and asset tested for the main carer of a child.
Family Tax Benefit Part B
Up to $193.34 per fortnight
Available for single parents or single-income couples with young children.
Family Tax Benefit Part A
Varies depending on income and number of children
Paid for each eligible child.
Weekly Payment Option
Some payments available weekly
Helps families manage budgeting.
Eligibility Rules Parents Must Know
To receive the $948.10 Parental Leave Pay, you must have worked before the birth or adoption and meet the work test and income cap.
You must be the primary caregiver during the claim period.
Both parents may share Parental Leave Pay days if they each meet eligibility rules.
Parenting Payment and Family Tax Benefit depend on income, relationship status, and the ages of children.
Official payment rates are adjusted by Services Australia on March 20 and September 20 each year.
How to Claim Centrelink Family Payments
Parents can claim Parental Leave Pay online through their myGov account linked to Centrelink. Applying online is the fastest way to submit documents and track the status of your claim.
Proof of identity
Employment and income details
Expected birth or adoption information
Birth registration details after the baby is born
Parents can lodge a claim before the baby is born and update it once the birth is registered. Parenting Payment and Family Tax Benefit claims can also be submitted online or by contacting Services Australia.
Smart Planning for Parental Leave Payments
Because Centrelink payments come from taxpayer-funded programs, families must report income changes and follow the rules during the parental leave period. Failing to update information could lead to overpayments, debts, or penalties.
Before starting leave, parents should also discuss arrangements with their employer to coordinate Parental Leave Pay with employer-funded leave, annual leave, or other entitlements.
Financial experts recommend using these payments to cover essential expenses, maintain an emergency fund, and avoid high-interest debt during the early months of caring for a newborn.
FAQs
Q1 Is the $948 Centrelink payment a single fixed benefit?
No. The $948 amount refers to the weekly rate of Parental Leave Pay. Families may receive additional payments such as Parenting Payment or Family Tax Benefit if they qualify.
Q2 Can both parents share Parental Leave Pay?
Yes. Eligible parents can share Parental Leave Pay days as long as both submit claims and meet the eligibility requirements.
Q3 Where can I check the latest official Centrelink payment rates?
The most accurate and updated payment rates for Parental Leave Pay, Parenting Payment, and Family Tax Benefit can be found on the official Services Australia website.
