Most useful information for separated parents

Severe financial hardship for Crisis Payment

For the purposes of Crisis Payment, you’re in severe financial hardship if you meet certain criteria.

Funeral bonds and prepaid funerals

Funeral costs you pay for in advance normally don’t count in your assets test for payments from us. There are some exceptions.

1. Asset types
2. Gifting

When gifting exceptions apply

We have some exceptions to how we assess gifting.

1. Financial Information Service
2. What it is

Financial Information Service Officers

Our Financial Information Service Officers can help you plan for your future financial needs.

1. What your commitments are
2. Mutual obligation requirements

Mutual obligation requirements if you’re 55 or older

Find out about your mutual obligation requirements if you’re 55 and over.

Mutual obligation requirements for principal carers

These are tasks and activities you agree to do to keep getting your payment. They give you a better chance of finding work.

Demerits and penalties for not meeting mutual obligation or participation requirements

Job seekers could get demerits and financial penalties for not meeting mutual obligation or participation requirements.

1. Child Care Subsidy
2. How much you can get

Hours of subsidised child care for Child Care Subsidy

From 5 January 2026, families eligible for Child Care Subsidy can get at least 72 hours of subsidised child care each fortnight.

Supporting documents for your Centrelink claim

When you claim a payment or service, we’ll ask you for some documents to support your claim.

1. Income and assets tests
2. Income

Income from Commonwealth Prac Payment

If you get a payment from us, you need to report any Commonwealth Prac Payments you get as income.