Parenting Payment (single) income test 2026
How much you can earn before Parenting Payment (single) reduces, and how fast it tapers above the free area.
| Fortnightly income | Effect on your payment |
|---|---|
| Up to $232.60 | No reduction (this is the income free area) |
| $232.60 and above | Reduces by 40c for each dollar over $232.60 |
Source: Services Australia, A guide to Australian Government payments (CO029), 1 July 2026 edition — Income test for Parenting Payment (single) (free area plus per-child amount, 40-cent taper)
| Situation | Payment reduces to nil at |
|---|---|
| Single, 1 child | $2,898.35 /fortnight |
Parenting Payment single has its own income free area, which is higher than the JobSeeker free area. You can earn up to that amount each fortnight before your payment reduces. The free area rises for each additional child you care for, so a parent with more children can earn a little more before their payment is affected.
Above the free area, your payment reduces by 40 cents for each extra dollar of income. This is a gentler taper than JobSeeker, so the payment lasts further up the income scale.
The point at which the payment reduces to zero is shown in the income test table on this page. Different figures apply if you have more than one child or you are over Age Pension age.
More on Parenting Payment (single)
- Parenting Payment (single) overviewRate, tests and calculator
- Full rate tableEvery variant
- CalculatorEstimate your payment
Estimates and general information only — not financial advice. Check Services Australia for your circumstances.
Rates current as of 20 March 2026. Source: DSS / Services Australia. Last checked 17 July 2026.