October 2025 brings real relief for households: a $75 Energy Bill Relief credit on electricity bills, higher Centrelink rates from the recent indexation, and select state concessions.
This short guide covers who’s eligible, how much you can get, and the payment dates so you don’t miss any support.
What’s Actually Being Paid In October 2025
There isn’t one nationwide cash deposit called a “Cost-of-Living Payment” landing in every bank account this month. Instead, October activity includes three main parts:
- a federal Energy Bill Relief credit that appears on electricity bills (not as cash),
- indexed Centrelink increases that started on 20 September 2025 and flow through your October pay cycles, and
- state-based help such as South Australia’s Cost of Living Concession (COLC), which many households receive between August and December.
Who Is Eligible
- Energy Bill Relief (households): Any household with an active electricity account generally receives up to $150 in 2025 (two instalments of $75 for July–December). Small businesses receive separate relief; the exact definition and cap vary by state. Embedded-network customers (e.g., apartments, caravan parks) may need to submit a quick application through their state portal.
- Centrelink Indexation: If you already get Age Pension, JobSeeker, Parenting Payment, or Rent Assistance, your October payments reflect the September indexation automatically—no extra forms needed. Current example maximums include Age Pension (single) $1,178.70/fortnight, partnered (each) $888.50/fortnight, JobSeeker (22+ no children) $793.60/fortnight, and Parenting Payment Single $1,039.70/fortnight.
- State & Territory Programs: States may stack additional support on top of federal relief. For example, SA COLC pays $261.90 to eligible homeowners and tenants, with deposits commonly arriving Aug–Dec.
Payment Dates In October 2025
- Energy Relief Credit: Most jurisdictions use a 1 October 2025 “census date.” Retailers then place the $75 credit on your next bill, so the exact day depends on your billing cycle and when your provider issues invoices.
- Centrelink Increases: Effective 20 September 2025; you’ll see the higher amounts on your usual October payday.
- State Programs: Timing varies. SA COLC, for example, continues depositing through October for many eligible households. Other states deliver energy credits via bills on their own schedules.
How You Receive The Money
- Energy Relief: Look for a separate line on your electricity bill (e.g., “Energy Bill Relief”). Most households do not need to apply. Embedded-network customers and some small businesses may have to submit details to receive the credit.
- Centrelink: Increases are automatic if you’re already on a qualifying payment.
- State Programs: Follow your state’s instructions; where required, ensure your bank details and concession status are up to date.
Simple- October 2025 Cost-Of-Living Support
| Program | Who Gets It | Amount | October Timing | How You Get It |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Energy Bill Relief (Federal) | Households with active electricity account | $75 credit this quarter (up to $150 July–Dec) | Triggered from 1 Oct; shows on next bill | Bill credit (automatic for most) |
| Centrelink (Indexed Rates) | Existing Age Pension, JobSeeker, Parenting Payment, Rent Assistance | Examples: Age Pension single $1,178.70/fn; partnered $888.50/fn; JobSeeker $793.60/fn; PPS $1,039.70/fn | Higher rates appear on your October paydays | Automatic (no extra forms) |
| SA Cost Of Living Concession | Eligible SA homeowners/tenants | $261.90 (2025–26) | Paid Aug–Dec (often in Oct) | EFT to bank once approved |
Avoid Scams
Be careful of posts or messages promising “bonus” Centrelink cash or asking for myGov logins. Only trust official .gov.au websites and your usual Centrelink/Energy retailer channels.
October 2025 brings real relief in two clear ways: a federal $75 energy bill credit that lowers your next electricity bill and higher Centrelink rates flowing through your October cycles after the 20 September indexation.
Add any state concessions you qualify for—like SA’s $261.90 COLC—and you can meaningfully reduce living costs this month.
To maximise your benefit, check your next electricity bill, confirm your Centrelink rate, and ensure concession and bank details are current.
FAQs
Will everyone in Australia get an October 2025 cash payment?
No. Most people see a $75 energy bill credit on their electricity bill and many receive higher Centrelink amounts due to indexation. There is no universal cash deposit in October.
I didn’t see $75 on 1 October—did I miss out?
Likely not. The credit is activated around 1 October, but it appears on your next bill, which depends on your billing cycle and provider processing times.
How do I get the state concession if I’m in an embedded network or recently moved?
Check your state page, update your bank details, and submit any short application required for embedded networks or new addresses so the payment can be issued correctly.
