you were right - you will only be entitled to one or the other of Austudy or Parenting Payment. If your child is under 7 y.o and you become single you will be financially much better off on Parenting Payment Single and Family Tax Benefit than Austudy and Family Tax Benefit. Claims for Parenting Payment are done over the phone so there isn't much point heading into the office at this point - the best time to contact will be the day after you become separated. You may also be eligible for JET child care assistance and Pensioner Education Supplement. You can make a claim for FTB online now if your combined income with your partner is below the income limits. Good luck!