Centrelink $77 Double Orphan Pension 2025 – Eligibility & Application Guide

The Centrelink Double Orphan Pension is a crucial financial support program for caregivers responsible for children who have lost both parents or whose parents are unable to provide care due to extraordinary circumstances.

For 2025, the pension remains at $77 per fortnight per child, helping caregivers manage living expenses, education costs, and healthcare needs. Unlike many other Centrelink benefits, this payment is not means-tested, ensuring that caregivers receive support regardless of their income level.

Key Details About the Double Orphan Pension

Feature	Details
Payment Amount	$77 per fortnight per child
Eligibility	Child must be a double orphan (both parents deceased or one deceased & the other unable to care for them)
Age Limit	Under 16 years old (or up to 19 if in full-time education)
Income Test?	No, this 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 Card
Official Website	Services Australia

The Centrelink Double Orphan Pension is designed to ease the financial burden on families taking care of children without parental support.

What is the Centrelink Double Orphan Pension?

This fortnightly payment is provided to caregivers who are raising children orphaned by the loss of both parents or whose parents are unable to provide care due to special circumstances such as:

• Long-term imprisonment
• Permanent institutionalization (e.g., psychiatric care)
• Parents missing due to war, political reasons, or refugee status

Unlike other Centrelink payments, this pension does not depend on your income or financial status, ensuring broad accessibility to eligible families.

Eligibility Criteria for the $77 Double Orphan Pension in 2025

To qualify for this pension, the child in your care must meet 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 Cannot Provide Care

The child may qualify if one parent has passed away and the other parent:

• Is serving a long-term prison sentence.
• Has been permanently institutionalized (e.g., psychiatric facility).
• Is missing due to war, conflict, or political circumstances (commonly applies to refugee children).

3. The Child is a Refugee and Their Parents’ Whereabouts Are Unknown

Children who hold refugee status in Australia and whose parents’ whereabouts remain unknown may also qualify.

4. Age Requirement

• The child must be under 16 years old.
• If in full-time education or training, eligibility extends to 19 years old.

5. Caregiver Requirements

• The caregiver must be an Australian resident.
• The caregiver must have full-time responsibility for the child’s well-being.

How Much is the Centrelink Double Orphan Pension?

The 2025 Double Orphan Pension provides $77 per fortnight per child. This payment can be combined with other benefits, including:

• Family Tax Benefit (FTB) Part A & B
• Carer Allowance (for children with disabilities)
• Child Care Subsidy (to assist with daycare expenses)
• Youth Allowance (for eligible students over 16)
• Healthcare Card (for medical and prescription discounts)

How to Apply for the Centrelink Double Orphan Pension?

The application process is straightforward, and payments typically begin within 2-4 weeks after approval.

Step 1: Gather Required Documents

Before applying, ensure you have:

• Death certificates of both parents (if applicable).
• Legal documents proving the other parent’s inability to care (e.g., medical reports, court orders).
• Proof of your relationship to the child (e.g., birth certificate, guardianship documents).
• School enrollment letter (if the child is over 16 and in full-time education).

Step 2: Submit Your Application

You can apply through one of the following methods:

• Online: Apply via myGov by filling out the Double Orphan Pension Form (FA011).
• In-Person: Visit a Centrelink office with your documents.
• Phone: Call Centrelink’s Families Line at 136 150 for assistance.

Step 3: Processing & Approval

• Applications take 2-4 weeks for processing.
• If additional documentation is required, Centrelink will notify you.
• Once approved, payments are directly deposited into your nominated bank account.

Additional Financial Support for Caregivers

Caregivers may qualify for additional Centrelink financial aid, including:

1. Family Tax Benefit (FTB) Part A & B

• Provides additional financial assistance based on family income.

2. Parenting Payments

• Available for low-income caregivers raising children under 8.

3. Rent Assistance

• Helps cover housing costs for eligible applicants.

4. State-Specific Foster Care Allowances

• Additional financial support may be available based on state or territory regulations.

Tips for Caregivers Managing Financial Aid

• Create a Budget – Outline expenses for education, healthcare, and daily needs.
• Apply for Healthcare Assistance – A Health Care Card can reduce medical costs.
• Access Educational Support – Some schools offer financial relief for orphaned children.
• Seek Emotional & Legal Support – Support organizations offer counseling and legal aid for caregivers.

FAQs

1. What is the Centrelink Double Orphan Pension?

The Double Orphan Pension is a fortnightly payment of $77 per child, given to caregivers raising children who have lost both parents or whose parents are unable to care for them.

2. Is the Double Orphan Pension means-tested?

No, your income does not affect eligibility—this pension is not means-tested.

3. How do I apply for the Double Orphan Pension?

You can apply online via myGov, in-person at Centrelink offices, or by calling 136 150.

4. What documents are needed for the application?

You need death certificates, guardianship papers, proof of schooling (if applicable), and medical or legal documents proving the other parent’s inability to care for the child.

5. How long does it take to process the application?

Centrelink typically processes applications within 2-4 weeks.

6. Can I receive this payment alongside other benefits?

Yes, you can receive Family Tax Benefit, Rent Assistance, Carer Allowance, and Youth Allowance if eligible.

7. What happens if the child turns 16?

If the child is in full-time education, payments continue until age 19.

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