Single Parent Help from the Government

Raising a child is hard with two parents, endless money, and a village to help, so how do people expect single parents to do it on their own?
Fortunately there are several important entities that have deemed it necessary to provide aid to single parents to support the growth and development of the child.

See below for some great information on government funding and eligibility requirements.

Eligibility for Funding

Eligibility for these single-parent funds are very simple, if you have a child that you care for on your own that is less than 8 years of age and your income and assets meet the criteria of the funding source, you may be eligible to receive this parenting aid. It may also be possible for a single parent and their partner to receive aid for children less than 6 years of age. Applicants must also meet residency requirements as well as meet requirements of participation if necessary.

How Much Funding Can I Get?

The amount of funding a parent or caretaker may receive is largely dependent on their status as well as the income and assets they have in their name or with their partner. The chart below indicates the maximum amount each group may be eligible to receive, the amount may be reduced for families who earn higher wages or own more assets.

Family Status	Maximum Payment (Per Fortnight)
Single parent	$725.40 (Including the supplement from the pension)
Two parents	$468.80
Two parents but separated due to prison, respite care, or illness	$561.80

 

If you are already receiving all the government help you are eligible for, review these other financial help programs which can include loans.

What Residency Requirements Do I Have to Meet?

In order to receive parental aid from the Government’s Department of Human Services, you must be an Australian resident and comply with the following criteria: you must have been an Australian resident for at least 104 weeks prior to applying for the aid, you must be physically present when you submit your request, you must meet residence requirements on the day you submit your request, and you must meet residence requirements throughout the entire period that you receive government aid.

The only exception to any of these stipulations is for the first statement. Applicants may be considered exempt from these criteria if they are considered a refugee or if the person became a single parent during their most recent Australian residency.

There may be a period after application that parents and caretakers have to wait for a variety of reasons including: standard wait time, period of unemployment, liquid assets, and income maintenance. This waiting period doesn’t necessarily mean you won’t get the aid; it’s just added steps the government must take in order to ensure the integrity of the system.

Single parenting is tough and often very expensive, which is why there are many programs out there that are devoted to helping single mothers, fathers, and other caretakers. Be sure to check your eligibility today to determine whether you should be receiving financial aid for the comfort, health, development, and support of your child.