Renting in Australia is becoming more expensive, making it difficult for low-income individuals and families to afford housing. To help with this, the Australian government offers financial support through the Centrelink Rent Assistance Program. In 2025, eligible recipients can receive up to $204 per fortnight, depending on their circumstances.
If you are receiving certain Centrelink payments and renting in private or community housing, you may qualify for this extra support. Let’s know how the program works, who is eligible, and how you can apply.
Rent Assistance
Centrelink Rent Assistance is an additional payment provided to those receiving certain welfare benefits who also pay rent. It is designed to make housing more affordable by reducing the financial burden of rental costs.
Unlike other payments, Rent Assistance is not a standalone benefit. Instead, it is automatically assessed when you apply for eligible Centrelink payments such as the Age Pension, JobSeeker, or Youth Allowance. If you qualify, the payment is added to your regular Centrelink deposit.
Payment rates
The amount you receive depends on how much rent you pay and your living situation. Here are the 2025 Rent Assistance rates:
| Living Situation | Maximum Payment (Fortnightly) | Minimum Rent to Qualify |
|---|---|---|
| Single | $188.20 | $396.94 |
| Couple (combined) | $177.20 | $472.87 |
| Shared Accommodation | $125.47 | Varies |
| Single parent (1-2 children) | $221.20 | Higher rent required |
| Single parent (3+ children) | $249.90 | Higher rent required |
If your rent is below the required threshold, you may receive a lower amount or nothing at all. However, if your rent is significantly higher, you will get the maximum possible payment for your category.
Who is eligible?
To receive Rent Assistance in 2025, you must meet the following criteria:
- Receive an eligible Centrelink payment, such as:
- Age Pension
- JobSeeker Payment
- Youth Allowance
- Disability Support Pension
- Carer Payment
- Family Tax Benefit Part A (for families with dependent children)
- Be paying rent in private housing, community housing, or certain caravan parks. Rent can include board and lodging costs in some cases.
- Be an Australian resident or citizen.
- Not live in government-subsidized housing, such as public or social housing.
If you meet these conditions, you will automatically be considered for Rent Assistance when applying for your main Centrelink payment.
How to apply
Applying for Rent Assistance is straightforward since no separate application is required. Here’s how the process works:
- Apply for an eligible Centrelink payment – When you apply for JobSeeker, the Age Pension, or another qualifying payment, Centrelink will automatically assess your Rent Assistance eligibility.
- Provide your rent details – If approved, you may need to submit a lease agreement or a rent certificate to confirm your housing situation.
- Update your details regularly – If your rent amount changes, report it through myGov or the Express Plus Centrelink app to ensure your payment is accurate.
- Wait for adjustments – Rent Assistance rates are reviewed twice a year (March and September) to keep up with inflation.
Since Rent Assistance is linked to other payments, any change in your main Centrelink payment could also affect your eligibility.
Special cases
Some living situations may affect how Rent Assistance is calculated:
- Shared accommodation – If you rent a room in a shared house, your payment may be lower (up to $125.47 per fortnight).
- Community housing – Rent Assistance is available for those in community housing, but not for tenants in state-subsidized public housing.
- Defense Housing – If you live in Defence Housing Australia accommodation, your Rent Assistance amount is based on the rent you pay after military housing subsidies are deducted.
These variations ensure that the program is tailored to different housing situations while maintaining fairness in rent support.
Centrelink Rent Assistance is a valuable program that helps Australians manage the rising cost of rent. If you’re already receiving a qualifying Centrelink payment, you might be eligible for up to $204 per fortnight. By keeping your rent details updated and knowing how the program works, you can make sure you receive the right amount of support.
FAQs
Who qualifies for Rent Assistance?
Anyone receiving eligible Centrelink payments and paying private rent.
How much is the maximum Rent Assistance?
The highest amount in 2025 is $204 per fortnight.
Do I need to apply separately for Rent Assistance?
No, it is automatically assessed when applying for eligible Centrelink payments.
Does Rent Assistance increase over time?
Yes, it is adjusted twice a year in line with inflation.
Can I get Rent Assistance in public housing?
No, it is only for private and community housing renters.
