Carer Allowance (caring for a child under 16 years)

Carer Allowance (caring for a child under 16 years) is a supplementary payment that may be available if you are a parent or carer who provides additional care and attention on a daily basis for a child aged under 16 years with a physical, intellectual or psychiatric disability or medical condition.

Carer Allowance can be paid in addition to wages or other income support payments such as Age Pension, Carer Payment (caring for a child under 16 years) or Parenting Payment.

The National Carer Strategy, announced on 3 August 2011, includes an initiative to extend eligibility for Carer Allowance for children aged between 10 and 16 years from 3 September 2011. For more information refer to the Carer Allowance for carers of children with Type 1 Diabetes up to the age of 16 frequently asked questions or the National Carer Strategy - frequently asked questions sections on this website.