Carer Payment eligibility, explained

The short answer

To get Carer Payment you generally need to give constant care to someone with a severe disability or medical condition, or who is frail aged, and you must meet an income test and an assets test. Carer Payment is paid by Services Australia under the Social Security Act 1991. Both you and the person you care for need to meet the rules.

Sources
Services Australia, Carer Payment
Social Security Act 1991

The caring requirement

You must provide constant care, meaning care that takes up a large part of your day and stops you from working full time. The care can be personal help such as dressing or lifting, guidance and supervision, or help managing daily tasks. The person you care for is assessed too, often using a formal assessment of their care needs.

The 25 hour rule

Carer Payment is meant for people whose caring role limits their ability to work. You can still work, study or volunteer, but generally only up to 25 hours a week, including travel time, and still qualify. Going over this limit can affect your payment, so tell Services Australia if your hours change.

Income, assets and residence

Carer Payment is means tested. Your income and your assets are both assessed, and payment reduces or stops above the thresholds. You also need to meet Australian residence rules. Because the thresholds and rates change, confirm the current figures with Services Australia before you rely on them.

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