Centrelink’s $77 Double Orphan Pension: How to Apply & Who Qualifies in 2025

In Australia, Centrelink’s $77 Double Orphan Pension provides essential financial support to children who have lost both parents or whose parents are unable to care for them under specific circumstances. If you are a guardian, grandparent, or carer of an eligible child, understanding how this payment works and how to apply can make a significant difference.

This comprehensive guide explains who qualifies for the Double Orphan Pension in 2025, how much you can receive, and the step-by-step process to apply. We break it down in simple terms while maintaining a professional and trustworthy approach, ensuring clarity for both caregivers and professionals working in child welfare.

Centrelink’s $77 Double Orphan Pension: Key Features

Caring for a child who has lost both parents or whose parents cannot provide care is a huge responsibility. Centrelink’s $77 Double Orphan Pension is designed to offer financial support without income restrictions, ensuring children in these circumstances receive the care they need. If you believe you are eligible, applying is simple and can provide essential financial relief.

For more details, visit the official Services Australia website or contact Centrelink directly.

What is Centrelink’s Double Orphan Pension?

The Double Orphan Pension is a government-funded support payment provided by Centrelink to help carers of children who have lost both parents or whose parents cannot care for them due to exceptional circumstances.

Payment Amount: As of 2025, eligible carers receive $77 per fortnight per child. Unlike some other welfare payments, this amount is not means-tested, meaning your income or assets won’t affect eligibility.

Why is this support important?

Caring for an orphaned child can be financially challenging, especially when unexpected expenses arise. This payment aims to ease some of the burden by providing financial assistance for essential needs like education, healthcare, and daily living costs.

Additional Benefits and Considerations

• Not means-tested: You can receive this payment regardless of income level.
• Can be combined with other benefits: Eligible individuals may also receive Family Tax Benefit (FTB) and Child Care Subsidy (CCS).
• Education Support: Some states offer additional educational assistance for orphans and children in care.

Who Qualifies for the Double Orphan Pension?

To be eligible for the Double Orphan Pension, the child in your care must meet one of the following criteria:

1. Orphaned Children

• The child has lost both parents due to death (proof required, such as death certificates).

2. Children with One Parent Deceased & the Other Unavailable

• If one parent has passed away, and the other is unable to care for the child, you may still qualify. Examples include:
  • The surviving parent is missing and their whereabouts are unknown.
  • The surviving parent is institutionalized or imprisoned.
  • The surviving parent is unable to provide care due to a severe disability or illness.

3. Refugee or Humanitarian Visa Holders

• If a child has been granted a refugee or humanitarian visa and neither parent is present or available to care for them, they may be eligible.
• This applies to children separated from their parents due to war, persecution, or displacement.

Who Can Apply?

You can apply for this payment if you are:

• The child’s legal guardian or carer.
• A grandparent, relative, or foster parent responsible for the child’s daily needs.
• An authorised representative for a child under government protection.

How to Apply for the Double Orphan Pension

Applying for Centrelink’s Double Orphan Pension is straightforward if you follow these steps:

Step 1: Gather Required Documents

To avoid delays, ensure you have the following documents ready:

• Birth certificate of the child.
• Death certificates (if both parents are deceased).
• Proof of refugee status (if applicable).
• Legal documents showing your guardianship or custody arrangement.
• Medical or prison documentation if the surviving parent is incapacitated or incarcerated.

Step 2: Apply Online or In-Person

• Online: Log in to your myGov account and navigate to Centrelink services. Select Double Orphan Pension and follow the prompts.
• In Person: Visit your nearest Services Australia Centrelink office and apply with the help of a staff member.
• By Phone: Call Centrelink’s Families Line at 136 150 for assistance.

Step 3: Wait for Approval & Payments to Begin

• Processing times vary, but most applications are approved within 4 to 6 weeks.
• Payments are made fortnightly into your nominated bank account.
• Centrelink may request additional documentation during the review process.

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Common Questions About the Double Orphan Pension

1. Is the Double Orphan Pension taxable?

No, the $77 per fortnight is tax-free and does not count towards taxable income.

2. Can I receive this payment if I already get Family Tax Benefit?

Yes! The Double Orphan Pension is separate from Family Tax Benefit (FTB), and you can receive both if eligible.

3. What happens if my circumstances change?

You must notify Centrelink within 14 days if:

• The child moves out of your care.
• The surviving parent becomes available to provide care.
• You no longer meet eligibility requirements.

4. Do I need to reapply every year?

No, but Centrelink may review your eligibility periodically, so keep your records updated.

5. Can this payment be backdated?

Yes, in some cases, Centrelink can backdate payments if you were eligible before applying. Contact Centrelink for details.