Families across Australia are set to benefit from a significant Centrelink boost as Parental Leave Pay (PLP) expands starting July 1, 2025. If you’re expecting a child—or recently welcomed one into your family—you could see your PLP increase by at least $1,831, thanks to a 10-day extension in the support period.
Let’s break down the updated Centrelink rules, eligibility criteria, and how much you’ll receive under the new changes.
What’s Changing with Parental Leave Pay?
Currently, eligible parents can receive 110 days (or 22 weeks) of PLP if their child was born after July 1, 2024. But under the new regulations, starting July 1, 2025, this maximum duration increases to:
- 120 days or 24 weeks
That means families can receive 10 additional paid days, equivalent to $1,831.60, based on the national minimum wage rate.
- If you claim before July 1, your balance will remain 110 days. However, if your child is born or adopted on or after July 1, Services Australia will automatically add 10 days once proof of birth or adoption is submitted.
How Much is the Payment Per Day?
| Payment Period | PLP Days | Rate per Day (Pre-Tax) | Total Pay |
|---|---|---|---|
| Until June 30, 2025 | 110 days | $183.16 | $20,147.60 |
| From July 1, 2025 | 120 days | $183.16 | $21,979.20 |
| Boost Amount | +10 days | — | + $1,831.60 |
Note: The $183.16/day rate is based on the national minimum wage and is subject to an increase from July 1, 2025, which could boost total payouts even further.
Eligibility Criteria for Parental Leave Pay
To receive this Centrelink payment boost, you must meet several key criteria. Here’s a breakdown:
1. Income Test
- You must not exceed $175,788 in the 2023–24 financial year.
- If you don’t pass individually, your combined family income can be up to $364,350.
2. Work Test
- Must have worked at least 10 of the 13 months before birth or adoption.
- Need to have worked a minimum of 330 hours (about one day/week) in that time.
3. Residency Requirements
You must be:
- An Australian citizen, OR
- Holding a permanent visa, Special Category visa, or eligible temporary visa
Note: Newly arrived residents may need to wait up to two years before accessing PLP.
4. Non-Working Days
You must not be working on any day you receive the payment.
5. Proof of Birth
You must submit official documentation of the child’s birth or adoption.
Sharing PLP With Your Partner
If you have a partner:
- In 2024–25, you can transfer up to 10 days of your PLP.
- From July 1, 2025, this increases to 15 days.
If you’re a single parent, you retain the full balance of the 120 days.
Superannuation & Tax Implications
Starting July 1, 2025, the Australian Taxation Office will also begin paying a superannuation contribution on Parental Leave Pay.
Important: PLP is taxable income, so you must:
- Report it on your annual tax return
- Expect income tax deductions from each payment
When to Apply?
You can submit your claim up to 3 months in advance of the expected birth or adoption. However:
- Apply before July 1, 2025: You get 110 days
- Apply after July 1, 2025, or if your child is born after that date: You’ll get 120 days
No need to reapply—10 extra days will be automatically added once you provide proof of birth after July 1.
Future Changes to Expect
Mark your calendars again: by July 1, 2026, Parental Leave Pay will increase to 130 days (26 weeks). This planned rise continues the government’s effort to provide more support for working families.
The upcoming $1,831 Centrelink boost offers valuable financial relief to eligible Australian families. With expanded Parental Leave Pay days, added superannuation, and the ability to share days with a partner, the system is becoming more supportive than ever. Make sure to check your eligibility, apply at the right time, and submit proof of birth to access the full benefit.
FAQs
What is the new total duration of Parental Leave Pay?
From July 1, 2025, eligible families will receive 120 days (24 weeks) of payment instead of 110 days.
How do I receive the extra $1,831?
Ensure your child is born or adopted on/after July 1, 2025 and submit proof of birth. Services Australia will automatically credit 10 additional days.
Do I need to reapply to get the added days?
No. If you’ve already submitted your claim before July 1, you’ll automatically receive the boost once proof is submitted post-July.