Change of circumstances

You need to tell us if your circumstances change when you are receiving Carer Allowance (caring for a child under 16 years). For example, you need to tell us if:

• the child you care for goes into respite care or hospital
• the child you care for needs less care
• the child you care for stops being your dependant
• you move house
• you stop caring for the child
• you or the child you care for go on a holiday outside Australia or leave Australia permanently.

You need to let us know about any changes within 14 days in case this affects your Carer Allowance. If you don't tell us about changes you may be overpaid, and you will probably have to pay the money back.

If you deliberately do not tell us about changes, you could be charged with fraud.

More information

• Factors affecting payment rates and eligibility
• What to do if your circumstances change when caring for someone
• Carer Allowance (caring for a child under 16 years) section