How much is Carer Allowance in 2026?
Carer Allowance · Carer Allowance (per care receiver)
Basic rate per fortnight · $4,227.60 ≈ per year (×26 fortnights)
- Carer Allowance
- $162.60
- Total per fortnight
- $162.60
Effective 1 January 2026 · Source: DSS / Services Australia
The current Carer Allowance rate is shown in the data block above. It is a flat amount paid every two weeks, and it is paid for each eligible person you care for.
Unlike most payments, Carer Allowance is not reduced a little at a time by an income test. Instead there is an income limit that you either pass or do not. The next increase is on 1 January 2027.
Carer Allowance rates in full
| Variant | Base rate | Supplements | Total /fortnight | ≈ per year (×26) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Carer Allowance (per care receiver) | — | $162.60 | $162.60 | $4,227.60 |
Source: DSS Social Security Payment Parameters, 1 January 2026 — Carer Allowance - Rate
More on Carer Allowance
How much is Carer Allowance: common questions
- How much is Carer Allowance per fortnight?
- Carer Allowance is $162.60 a fortnight. It is a flat rate, paid for each eligible person you care for, so caring for more than one person can mean more than one Carer Allowance.
- Is Carer Allowance income tested?
- Yes, but not with a gradual taper. Carer Allowance uses an income limit based on your family's combined adjusted taxable income. If you are under the limit you get the full rate; if you are over it you get nothing. There is no reduced rate in between.
- Can I get Carer Allowance and Carer Payment together?
- Yes. Carer Payment is a full income support payment, and Carer Allowance is a supplement, so you can be paid both at the same time if you qualify for each. See our Carer Payment versus Carer Allowance comparison for how they differ.
- When does Carer Allowance go up next?
- Carer Allowance is indexed once a year, on 1 January. The next increase is on 1 January 2027. This page updates to match.
- Is Carer Allowance taxable?
- No. Carer Allowance is not taxable and you do not include it in your tax return. This is different from Carer Payment, which is generally taxable when both you and the person you care for are under Age Pension age.
Estimates and general information only — not financial advice. Check Services Australia for your circumstances.
Rates current as of 1 January 2026. Source: DSS / Services Australia. Last checked 17 July 2026.