Change of circumstances

You need to tell us if your circumstances change when you are receiving Carer Payment (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 or the person you care for go on a holiday outside Australia or leave Australia permanently
• you stop caring for the child
• you start working or studying
• your income changes.

You need to let us know about any changes within 14 days in case this affects your Carer Payment. 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.
• You may have to pay a recovery fee if you provide incorrect information about your employment income.

More information

• Factors affecting payment rates and eligibility
• Carer Payment (caring for a child under 16 years) section