As living costs keep rising, the Australian government is increasing Centrelink payments to provide financial relief. Starting from March 20, 2025, these changes will help millions of Australians manage their expenses.
Why Are Centrelink Payments Increasing?
The government adjusts Centrelink payments twice a year to keep up with inflation. This ensures that people receiving benefits don’t lose purchasing power as prices go up.
How Much More Will You Get?
Here’s a breakdown of how much different payment types will increase per fortnight:
| Payment Type | Previous Rate | Increase | New Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| Age Pension (Single) | $1,144.40 | $4.60 | $1,149.00 |
| Age Pension (Couple, per person) | $862.60 | $3.50 | $866.10 |
| JobSeeker Payment (Single, no children) | $786.80 | $3.10 | $789.90 |
| Parenting Payment (Single) | $1,026.30 | $4.00 | $1,030.30 |
| Youth Allowance (Single, over 18, at home) | $459.80 | $17.30 | $477.10 |
| Youth Allowance (Single, over 18, away from home) | $646.00 | $24.30 | $670.30 |
| Austudy (Single, no children) | $845.80 | $0.00 | $845.80 |
| Carer Allowance | $153.50 | $5.80 | $159.30 |
All amounts are in Australian dollars and are fortnightly payments.
Key Payment Highlights
Here’s a quick look at the biggest changes:
- Age Pension: Single pensioners get $4.60 more per fortnight. Couples see an increase of $7.00 combined.
- JobSeeker Payment: Single recipients without children now receive $789.90 per fortnight (a $3.10 increase).
- Parenting Payment: Single parents now get $1,030.30 per fortnight, an extra $4.00.
- Youth Allowance:
- Those living at home get $17.30 more.
- Those living away from home get $24.30 more.
- Carer Allowance: Increased by $5.80, bringing the new amount to $159.30.
Extra Benefits and Support
In addition to the payment increases, the government has introduced extra financial help:
- Commonwealth Rent Assistance: Eligible households will receive $44.13 to $87.92 more per fortnight to help with rent.
- Education Costs Supplement: Families receiving Family Tax Benefit Part A will automatically get:
- $300 per primary school student
- $400 per secondary school student
This will be included in their first payment in April.
Changes to Income and Asset Tests
To help more people qualify for benefits, the income and asset test thresholds have been updated:
Income Test Adjustments
- The income-free area (how much you can earn before payments start reducing) has increased.
- Example: A single JobSeeker recipient without children can now earn up to $192 per fortnight before payments are affected.
Asset Test Adjustments
- The limit on how much you can own and still receive benefits has increased.
- Example: A single pensioner who owns a home can now have up to $697,000 in assets and still qualify for a part pension.
Improved Online Services
To make it easier for people to manage their benefits, the government has improved the integration between myGov and Centrelink online accounts. This means a smoother experience when accessing services.
Final Thoughts
The April 2025 Centrelink payment boost may seem small, but it helps millions of Australians cope with rising costs. Along with rent assistance, education support, and higher income limits, these changes offer extra financial relief. If you’re receiving Centrelink payments, make sure to check your updated rates and benefits.
FAQ’S
1. When will the new Centrelink payments take effect?
The updated Centrelink payments will begin on March 20, 2025. Recipients will see the new amounts in their first payment after this date.
2. How much is the Age Pension increasing?
Single pensioners will receive an extra $4.60 per fortnight, bringing the total to $1,149.00.
Couples (per person) will get $3.50 more per fortnight, increasing their total to $866.10 per person.
3. Who qualifies for the increased Youth Allowance?
Anyone receiving Youth Allowance will see an increase:
Single recipients living at home get an extra $17.30 per fortnight.
Single recipients living away from home receive an extra $24.30 per fortnight.
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