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To get this payment you and the person you care for need to meet some rules. You need to both:
- be Australian residents
- meet an income and assets test.
Care needs
You may be able to get this payment if you:
- provide constant care to someone who needs care for at least 6 months
- are caring for someone at the end of their life.
Constant care means you provide care for a large amount of time daily. This is roughly equal to a normal working day and stops you from working full time.
The care can include:
- physical help, such as needing to be lifted or help to get dressed
- guidance, such as support shopping and taking the right medication
- supervision, to support independence and safety.
You may still get Carer Payment if you do paid work or are self-employed for up to 100 hours in a 4 week period. Read more about working while you get Carer Payment.
When you claim, we’ll ask you about the person you care for and the care they need. Read more about the rules for the person you care for.
Department of Veterans’ Affairs payments
If you get a Department of Veterans’ Affairs (DVA) payment, you may not be able to get Carer Payment. Check your eligibility if you’re getting a Department of Veterans’ Affairs payment.
If you’re deciding between Carer Payment and DVA’s Veteran Payment, it’s important you understand what each payment offers. Read how Veteran Payment affects your Carer Payment.
If you can’t get Carer Payment, there could be other payments you may be eligible for.