The Centrelink Double Orphan Pension is a crucial financial support program for caregivers of children who have lost both parents or whose parents are unable to care for them due to exceptional circumstances.
In 2025, this pension provides $79.90 per fortnight per child, offering essential assistance to families facing the challenges of raising a child without parental support.
Understanding the Double Orphan Pension
The Double Orphan Pension is a non-taxable, fortnightly payment designed to help caregivers cover the costs associated with raising a child who is a double orphan.
This support aims to alleviate financial burdens related to education, healthcare, and daily living expenses.
Eligibility Criteria for 2025
To qualify for the Double Orphan Pension in 2025, both the caregiver and the child must meet specific conditions:
Caregiver Requirements
- Must care for the child at least 35% of the time.
- Must meet Australian residence rules.
- Must have claimed Family Tax Benefit (FTB) for the child or have claimed but cannot receive it due to high family income or the child receiving an education payment, such as ABSTUDY.
Child Requirements
- Both parents are deceased, or
- One parent is deceased, and the other is:
- In prison for at least 10 years.
- In a psychiatric institution or nursing home for an indefinite period.
- Their whereabouts are unknown.
- The child is a refugee who hasn’t lived in Australia with either or both parents, and whose parents are either outside Australia or their whereabouts are unknown.
- Additionally, the child must be under 16 years old or up to 19 if in full-time secondary education.
Payment Details
As of January 1, 2025, the Double Orphan Pension rate is $79.90 per fortnight per child. This payment is non-taxable and is not affected by the caregiver’s income or assets, ensuring that financial support is accessible to those who need it most.
Application Process
Applying for the Double Orphan Pension involves several steps:
- Prepare Necessary Documents:
- Child’s birth certificate.
- Proof of the child’s refugee status, if applicable.
- Confirmation of the parents’ death or inability to care for the child (e.g., death certificates, legal documents).
- Complete the Claim Form:
- Obtain the “Claim for Double Orphan Pension” form (SC003).
- This form can be downloaded from the Services Australia website or collected from a local Centrelink office.
- Submit the Application:
- Online: Through your Centrelink online account linked to myGov.
- By Post: Mail the completed form and documents to:servicesaustralia.gov.au
- In Person: Visit a local Centrelink service centre with the completed form and supporting documents.
- Await Assessment:
- Centrelink will review the application and notify the caregiver of the outcome. If additional information is required, they will contact the applicant.
Additional Support Options
Caregivers receiving the Double Orphan Pension may also be eligible for other forms of assistance:
- Family Tax Benefit (FTB): Provides financial help to eligible families with the cost of raising children.
- Carer Allowance: A supplementary payment for those who care for someone with a disability or medical condition.
- Child Care Subsidy: Assists with the cost of approved child care.
- Healthcare Cards: Offer concessions on medical expenses and prescription medicines.
These additional supports can further alleviate the financial responsibilities associated with caregiving.
FAQs
Can the Double Orphan Pension be received alongside other Centrelink payments?
Yes, caregivers can receive the Double Orphan Pension in addition to other payments like the Family Tax Benefit, as it is not means-tested.
Is the Double Orphan Pension taxable?
No, the Double Orphan Pension is a non-taxable payment.
Are there any income or assets tests for eligibility?
No, there are no income or assets tests for the Double Orphan Pension.