Centrelink Payment: The Australian government, through Centrelink (Services Australia), provides financial help to millions of people. These payments are especially important for low-income families, pensioners, jobseekers, students, and carers.
To keep up with the rising cost of living, the government reviews and adjusts these payments twice every year. The next big change is the Centrelink Payment Increase 2025, which starts from 20 September 2025.
This article explains who will benefit, the new payment rates, and why this increase is happening. If you receive Centrelink benefits, you’ll want to know exactly how much more you’ll get.
What Is Centrelink Payment Increase 2025?
The Centrelink payment hike is designed to help Australians manage inflation and everyday costs. Payments are increased based on:
- Indexation – an automatic adjustment to match rising prices of goods and services.
- Government Initiated Increases – extra boosts announced by the government to fight financial pressure.
This increase will apply to almost all Centrelink benefits, including:
- Age Pension
- Youth Allowance
- Jobseeker Payment
- Carer Payment
- Disability Support Pension
- Family Tax Benefit
- Stillborn Payment
- ABSTUDY
From 20 September 2025, the higher rates will be deposited directly into your account.
New Centrelink Payment Rates from September 2025
Here’s a clear breakdown of the old vs. new rates under the Centrelink Benefit Hike 2025:
| Benefit Type | Previous Rate | New Rate | Increase (Per Fortnight) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Age Pension (Single Adult) | $1149.00 | $1178.70 | $29.70 |
| Age Pension (Partnered Adult) | $866.10 | $888.50 | $22.40 |
| Transitional Pension (Single Adult) | $944.80 | $959.70 | $14.90 |
| Transitional Pension (Couples) | $762.30 | $774.30 | $12.00 |
| Pension Bonus Scheme | $2640.30 | $2710.90 | $70.60 |
| Jobseeker Payment (Single) | $781.10 | $793.60 | $12.50 |
| Jobseeker Payment (Parents) | $836.50 | $849.90 | $13.40 |
| ABSTUDY | $83.60 | $84.90 | $1.30 |
| Youth Allowance | $1011.50 | $1027.70 | $16.20 |
Who Is Eligible for the Payment Increase?
The Centrelink increase 2025 will apply automatically if you already receive one of the qualifying payments. Common groups who benefit include:
- Pensioners (aged and disability)
- Unemployed Australians (Jobseeker recipients)
- Students (Youth Allowance, ABSTUDY)
- Carers looking after family members with illness or disability
- Families with children receiving Family Tax Benefit
There is no need to apply separately. Payments will be adjusted automatically based on eligibility.
Why Is the Centrelink Payment Increasing?
The rise in payments is mainly due to:
- Inflation adjustments (Indexation): Prices for food, fuel, rent, and essentials are rising, so payments are adjusted to match.
- Government policy changes: Sometimes extra hikes are added to support Australians during difficult economic times.
This ensures that people relying on Centrelink can maintain a basic standard of living even as costs rise.
Key Highlights at a Glance
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Organization | Services Australia (Centrelink) |
| Country | Australia |
| Increase starts from | 20 September 2025 |
| Payment Basis | Fortnightly |
| Beneficiaries | Low-income families, pensioners, students, carers, jobseekers |
| Website | servicesaustralia.gov.au |
The Centrelink Payment Increase 2025 is welcome news for millions of Australians who are facing rising living costs. From 20 September 2025, people receiving pensions, jobseeker payments, student support, and carer benefits will see a boost in their fortnightly payments.
This update ensures that support reaches those who need it the most, including low-income households, seniors, unemployed workers, and young Australians studying or training.
Although the payment hike may appear modest, it plays a crucial role in helping families cover essential expenses like food, rent, healthcare, and utility bills. For many households, even a small increase can mean better financial stability, reduced stress, and improved quality of life.
This adjustment is being made through both indexation (to keep up with inflation) and government-initiated boosts (to ease the pressure of economic challenges).
Together, these measures ensure that Centrelink benefits remain fair, relevant, and sustainable in today’s fast-changing economy.
By keeping pace with the cost of living, the government is showing its commitment to supporting pensioners, jobseekers, carers, and students so that no one is left behind during times of financial difficulty.
The increase is not just about numbers—it is about strengthening community wellbeing and ensuring every Australian has the chance to meet their basic needs with dignity.
FAQs
When will the new Centrelink payments begin?
The increase starts from 20 September 2025, and payments will be sent directly into eligible accounts.
How much is the Age Pension increasing?
Single Age Pensioners will get an extra $29.70 per fortnight, while couples will receive an extra $22.40 per fortnight.
Do I need to apply for the payment increase?
No. If you are already receiving Centrelink benefits, the increase will be automatic.
