The Double Orphan Pension is a financial support payment from Centrelink designed to assist individuals who are caring for children whose parents are deceased or unable to care for them.
As of 2025, new updates to the eligibility rules and application process aim to make the payment more accessible for those who need it most.
What Is the Double Orphan Pension?
The Double Orphan Pension is a fortnightly payment of $79.90, provided to carers of children who are considered “double orphans.”
This term refers to children who have either lost both parents or whose parents cannot care for them due to serious circumstances such as imprisonment, institutionalization, or being untraceable.
Importantly, this payment is not income-tested or asset-tested, meaning it will not be reduced based on the carer’s financial circumstances.
Who Is Eligible in 2025?
To receive the Double Orphan Pension in 2025, the following eligibility criteria must be met:
- The carer must be providing care for the child at least 35% of the time.
- One of the following must apply to the child:
- Both parents are deceased.
- One parent is deceased, and the other is:
- Imprisoned for at least 10 years
- Permanently confined in a psychiatric facility or nursing home
- Location is unknown
- The child is a refugee and cannot be reunited with parents who are overseas or missing.
- The carer and child must be living in Australia on the date of claim.
- The carer must have legal custody or guardianship, and either receive Family Tax Benefit (FTB) or meet FTB exemption conditions.
Updated Application Process for 2025
Applying for the Double Orphan Pension is now more streamlined. Here’s how:
- Prepare documentation such as:
- The child’s birth certificate
- Proof of parents’ death or conditions preventing care
- Refugee or immigration paperwork (if applicable)
- Complete the official claim form for the Double Orphan Pension.
- Submit the form:
- Through your Centrelink account on myGov
- In person at any Centrelink service centre
- By post to Centrelink with supporting documents
Once submitted, applicants will receive confirmation and further instructions if more details are required.
Double Orphan Pension 2025
| Detail | Description |
|---|---|
| Payment Amount | $79.90 per fortnight |
| Eligibility | Carer must provide 35%+ care; child must meet orphan status |
| Means Tested | No – not based on income or assets |
| Residency Requirement | Carer and child must live in Australia |
| Application Methods | Online, in person, or by mail |
| Linked to FTB? | Yes – must be receiving or exempt from Family Tax Benefit |
The Centrelink Double Orphan Pension in 2025 continues to play a crucial role in supporting carers of children facing tragic and complex circumstances.
With no means testing, a fortnightly payment of $79.90, and a streamlined application process, the updated guidelines ensure that financial assistance reaches those who need it most.
Carers are encouraged to review their eligibility and submit their applications to receive the full benefits available under the new rules.
FAQs
Can two carers receive the Double Orphan Pension for the same child?
No, only one eligible carer can receive the payment for each child, even in shared-care situations.
Does the Double Orphan Pension affect other Centrelink payments?
No, the payment is not counted as income and does not affect other payments such as FTB or Parenting Payment.
How often is the payment made?
The Double Orphan Pension is paid every fortnight, alongside other Centrelink benefits if applicable.