The Centrelink Double Orphan Pension is a financial support program designed for caregivers responsible for children who have lost both parents or whose parents cannot provide care due to exceptional circumstances. In 2025, this pension remains at $77 per fortnight, providing crucial assistance for families caring for orphaned children.
Raising a child without parental support comes with financial and emotional challenges. This article breaks down the eligibility criteria, application process, payment details, and additional support options available for caregivers.
Key Details About the Centrelink Double Orphan Pension
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Payment Amount | $77 per fortnight per child |
| Eligibility | Child must be a double orphan or have one parent unable to care for them |
| Age Limit | Under 16 years old (or up to 19 if in full-time education) |
| Income Test? | No, the payment is not means-tested |
| Application Methods | Online via MyGov, in person at Centrelink, or by phone |
| Processing Time | 2-4 weeks on average |
| Additional Support | Family Tax Benefit, Carer Allowance, Child Care Subsidy, Healthcare Cards |
| Official Website | Services Australia |
What is the Centrelink Double Orphan Pension?
The Double Orphan Pension is a fortnightly government payment designed to assist caregivers who are raising children without parental support. This includes children whose parents are deceased or unable to provide care due to exceptional circumstances.
Unlike some Centrelink payments, this pension is not means-tested, meaning that a caregiver’s income and assets do not affect eligibility. The purpose of the payment is to help cover the cost of raising the child, including education, healthcare, and living expenses.
Who is Eligible for the $77 Double Orphan Pension in 2025?
To qualify for this pension, the child in your care must meet at least one of the following conditions:
1. Both Parents Are Deceased
- If a child has lost both biological or adoptive parents, they automatically qualify for the Double Orphan Pension.
2. One Parent is Deceased, and the Other is Unable to Provide Care
- The child may qualify if one parent has passed away and the other:
- Is serving a long-term prison sentence
- Has been permanently institutionalized (e.g., psychiatric hospital)
- Is missing due to war, conflict, or political reasons
3. The Child is a Refugee and Their Parents’ Whereabouts Are Unknown
- Children granted refugee status in Australia, whose parents’ whereabouts remain unknown, may also be eligible.
4. Age Requirement
- The child must be under 16 years old.
- If the child is in full-time education, eligibility extends up to age 19.
5. Caregiver Requirements
- The caregiver must be an Australian resident.
- The caregiver must have full-time responsibility for the child’s welfare.
For specific eligibility queries, visit the Services Australia website or speak to a Centrelink representative.
How Much is the Centrelink Double Orphan Pension?
The 2025 Double Orphan Pension provides $77 per fortnight per child.
Additional Financial Support Available
- Family Tax Benefit (FTB) Part A & B – Additional financial aid for caregivers.
- Carer Allowance – For caregivers supporting a child with a disability.
- Child Care Subsidy – Helps reduce daycare and preschool costs.
- Healthcare Card – Provides discounts on medical services and prescriptions.
How to Apply for the Centrelink Double Orphan Pension?
Applying for the Double Orphan Pension is straightforward.
Step 1: Gather Required Documents
Before applying, ensure you have the following:
- Death certificates of both parents (if applicable).
- Legal documents proving that the other parent is unable to provide care (e.g., court orders, medical reports, or prison records).
- Proof of your relationship to the child (e.g., birth certificate, guardianship documents).
- Proof of full-time education (if the child is over 16).
Step 2: Submit Your Application
You can apply via the following methods:
✅ Online: Log in to MyGov, link your Centrelink account, and fill out the Double Orphan Pension form (FA011).
✅ In-Person: Visit a local Centrelink office and submit your documents.
✅ By Phone: Call the Centrelink Families Line at 136 150 for assistance.
Step 3: Application Review & Approval
- Centrelink typically processes applications within 2-4 weeks.
- If additional documents are required, Centrelink will notify you.
- Once approved, payments will be made directly to your nominated bank account.
Additional Support for Caregivers
Caregivers of orphaned children may qualify for other government assistance programs, such as:
1. Parenting Payment
- For low-income caregivers raising young children.
2. Rent Assistance
- Provides financial aid for housing costs if the caregiver is renting a home.
3. Foster Care Allowances
- Additional state-specific financial support for caregivers in formal foster care arrangements.
FAQs
1. How much is the Double Orphan Pension in 2025?
The payment remains at $77 per fortnight per child.
2. Is this pension means-tested?
No, the Double Orphan Pension is not means-tested, meaning your income and assets do not affect eligibility.
3. Can I apply if I am a grandparent raising an orphaned child?
Yes, grandparents, foster parents, and legal guardians can apply if they are full-time caregivers.
4. Does the child need to be in school to receive the payment?
- Children under 16 qualify automatically.
- Children aged 16-19 must be in full-time education or training to continue receiving payments.
5. What happens if my application is rejected?
You can request a review or provide additional documentation to support your claim.
6. How long does the application process take?
Centrelink typically processes applications within 2-4 weeks, but this may vary.
7. Can I receive other Centrelink payments while on this pension?
Yes, you may still qualify for Family Tax Benefit, Carer Allowance, and Rent Assistance.
8. Where can I check my payment status?
Log in to your MyGov account or contact Centrelink Families Line at 136 150.
Click here to know more.
Aanchal is a passionate writer with a keen interest in storytelling, content creation, and creative expression. She enjoys exploring diverse topics and crafting engaging narratives that captivate readers.
