Introduction
Carers are the unsung heroes of Australian society—providing constant, unpaid care to family members and loved ones who suffer from illness, disability, mental health conditions, or age-related frailty. In recognition of their essential role, the Australian government, through Services Australia, is now issuing an extra $153 payment to eligible carers as part of its Carer Supplement and Bonus Relief Scheme for 2025.
This comprehensive guide outlines everything you need to know about the $153 extra payment—who qualifies, how and when payments will be made, the government’s broader support initiatives for carers, and answers to frequently asked questions. Whether you’re a full-time carer or part-time caregiver managing multiple roles, this article ensures you’re informed and empowered to claim your entitlements.
Section 1: Overview of Carer Payments in Australia
Australia provides multiple financial supports to carers, including:
| Payment Type | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Carer Payment | Income support for carers who can’t work due to full-time care |
| Carer Allowance | Fortnightly payment for part-time or full-time carers |
| Carer Supplement | Annual lump-sum supplement for eligible carers |
| Child Disability Assistance Payment | Additional help for carers of children with disabilities |
The $153 extra is part of an additional relief initiative in 2025 that supplements these standard payments.
Section 2: What Is the $153 Extra Payment for Carers?
The $153 payment is a one-off top-up or bonus supplement provided to:
- Acknowledge increased costs due to inflation, especially in healthcare, transport, and housing
- Offer relief for those who may be unable to participate in paid work due to caregiving demands
- Provide additional support ahead of Carers Week 2025
It is not taxable, and it does not affect any other Centrelink payments.
Section 3: Who Is Eligible for the $153 Extra Payment?
To receive the $153 payment, you must meet at least one of the following conditions:
Eligibility Criteria Table
| You Are Eligible If You: | Notes |
|---|---|
| Receive Carer Payment from Centrelink | Automatically eligible |
| Receive Carer Allowance, even if under income threshold only | Eligible for partial or full supplement |
| Receive both Carer Payment + Carer Allowance | Eligible; payment may be bundled |
| Care for a person with disability or serious medical condition | Need to be formally registered with Centrelink |
| Look after a child with a disability | May qualify under Child Disability Assistance rules |
| Are under means-testing limits | Standard limits apply for Carer Payment/Allowance recipients |
Those caring for multiple people may receive multiple payments, up to a capped total.
Section 4: Payment Schedule and Delivery Method
The $153 payment is expected to be issued in July 2025, timed to align with the new financial year and before Carers Week in October.
Timeline
| Milestone | Date (Expected) |
|---|---|
| Qualifying Period Ends | 30 June 2025 |
| Payment Announcement | 10 July 2025 |
| Payments Begin | 15 July 2025 |
| Payment Window Ends | 31 July 2025 |
Payment Method
- Direct deposit into the bank account registered with Centrelink
- Labeled as “Carer Supplement” or “Carer Bonus” on your payment record
Section 5: How to Confirm Your Eligibility
There is no application form for the $153 payment if you’re already receiving eligible benefits.
Steps to Confirm Eligibility:
- Log in to your myGov account linked to Centrelink.
- Navigate to the Payment Summary or Inbox.
- Look for notifications regarding “Carer Supplement” or “Bonus Payment.”
- If unclear, call Centrelink’s Carer Line at 132 717 for assistance.
Section 6: How the $153 Payment Helps Carers
Even though $153 might not seem large, for carers balancing bills, medications, travel, and sometimes emergency expenses, every dollar matters.
Top Uses of the $153 by Carers
| Category | Estimated Spend |
|---|---|
| Medication / Pharmacy | $30–$50 |
| Travel to appointments | $25–$40 |
| Nutritional Supplements / Equipment | $20–$35 |
| Utility bills / Rent | $30–$50 |
| Emergency savings | Remainder or full amount |
Section 7: Carer Support in 2025 – A Bigger Picture
The $153 is part of the government’s 2025 Care Economy Plan, which includes:
- Increased Carer Allowance thresholds
- Extra funding for respite services
- Boosted Mental Health support for carers
- National Carers Card for transport concessions, health access, and discounts
The extra payment reflects the growing understanding that unpaid care must be formally recognised and financially supported.
Section 8: Frequently Overlooked Scenarios
Some carers may miss out due to misconceptions. Below are examples of overlooked eligibility.
Scenario 1: Caring for Elderly Parents
- You live separately but provide daily in-home care
- You may qualify for Carer Allowance and the $153 payment
Scenario 2: Part-Time Employment and Carer Role
- You work under 25 hours/week and care for a dependent
- You might qualify under Carer Payment rules
Scenario 3: Grandparents Caring for Disabled Children
- Grandparent carers may apply for Carer Allowance
- Payment applies if you’re already receiving it
Scenario 4: Not Receiving Full Carer Payment
- Even if your income makes you ineligible for full payment
- A partial allowance may still qualify you for the $153 bonus
Section 9: Disputes, Missed Payments, and Appeals
If you believe you qualified but did not receive the payment:
- Contact Centrelink’s Carers Line
- Submit a formal claim review
- File a complaint through the Services Australia portal
- Appeal to the Administrative Appeals Tribunal (AAT) if needed
You’ll need:
- Copies of correspondence
- Proof of care relationship
- Payment history printouts
Section 10: Community and Emotional Impact
This small one-off payment holds emotional significance for many:
- Acknowledgment from the government
- Recognition of your invisible labour
- Encouragement to continue caregiving without feeling forgotten
Carer advocacy organisations have long called for recurring bonuses, and this $153 is viewed as a positive but modest step.
Conclusion
The $153 extra for carers in Australia is more than just a monetary top-up. It’s a symbol of appreciation, a necessary relief during economic strain, and a recognition of the tireless work carers perform every day across the country.
If you are already receiving Carer Payment, Carer Allowance, or caring for someone with a recognised condition, you’re likely eligible—and you don’t need to apply. Just check your myGov inbox, payment history, and stay up to date with Centrelink communications.
The government has made clear that caring is valuable work, and this payment helps put some action behind those words. Be informed. Be prepared. And make sure you get what you’ve earned.
FAQs
1. Do I need to apply separately for the $153 carer payment?
No, the payment is automatic if you were receiving an eligible carer benefit by the cut-off date. No additional paperwork is required.
2. Will the $153 affect my other Centrelink benefits or income tax?
No. The $153 is tax-free and does not count as income for Centrelink means tests or income assessments.
3. Can I get the $153 more than once if I care for multiple people?
Yes, you may be eligible for multiple payments if you receive separate Carer Allowance entitlements for more than one care recipient, up to the scheme’s cap.
4. What if I stop being a carer before July 2025?
You must have been receiving the allowance or payment as of June 30, 2025 to qualify. If your circumstances change before that, you may not be eligible.
5. How can I check if I’ve received the payment?
Log in to myGov → Go to Centrelink → Check Payment History or Inbox → Look for an entry titled “Carer Supplement” or “Carer Bonus.”
