With inflation and rising expenses, many Australians are looking for financial relief. In response, Centrelink has increased cost of living payments, including boosts to pensions, JobSeeker, rent assistance, and energy rebates. These changes aim to support pensioners, families, job seekers, and renters struggling with higher living costs.
This guide breaks down who is eligible, how much payments have increased, and how you can check your benefits.
Key Updates
| Key Points | Details |
|---|---|
| Payment Increases | Age Pension +$28.10/fortnight (single), JobSeeker +$15.30/fortnight |
| Rent Assistance Boost | Additional 10%, up to $27.02/fortnight |
| Energy Bill Rebates | $300 rebate for eligible households & small businesses |
| Eligibility | Automatic for most Centrelink recipients |
| More Information | Visit Services Australia |
These updates help millions of Australians manage rising costs and access extra financial support.
Payments Increasing
The cost of groceries, rent, and utilities continues to rise, with inflation reaching 5.6% in 2025. To keep up, the government has adjusted Centrelink payments so those most affected can receive additional support.
The increases include:
Indexation of payments (adjusting for inflation).
Higher rent assistance for low-income renters.
Additional energy rebates for eligible households.
These changes ensure Australians on fixed incomes don’t fall behind due to rising expenses.
Who Qualifies?
The updated payments are automatic for eligible recipients. Here’s a look at who qualifies:
1. Age Pension & Disability Support Pension Recipients
Singles: Extra $28.10 per fortnight.
Couples: Combined increase of $42.40 per fortnight.
2. JobSeeker Recipients
Increased by $15.30 per fortnight.
Job seekers aged 55+ may receive extra supplements.
3. Rent Assistance Recipients
Increased by 10%.
Families with children: Up to $27.02 more per fortnight.
4. Energy Bill Rebate Recipients
$300 rebate for eligible households and small businesses.
If you receive any of these benefits, expect to see higher payments automatically added to your Centrelink account.
How Much Will Payments Increase?
The new payment rates starting from September 2025:
| Payment Type | Previous Amount | New Amount | Increase |
|---|---|---|---|
| Age Pension (Single) | $1,064.00/fortnight | $1,092.10/fortnight | +$28.10 |
| Age Pension (Couples) | $1,604.00/fortnight | $1,646.40/fortnight | +$42.40 |
| JobSeeker (Single) | $701.90/fortnight | $717.20/fortnight | +$15.30 |
| Rent Assistance (Single) | $157.20/fortnight | $173.00/fortnight | +$15.80 |
These adjustments help align payments with current living costs, ensuring that social security keeps up with inflation.
How to Check Your Eligibility
Most payment adjustments are automatic, but you should ensure your details are up to date.
Steps to Check Your Payment Status
Log into MyGov
- Check your Centrelink account for payment updates.
- Ensure your banking and personal details are correct.
Review Your Payments
- Navigate to “Payment and Services” on MyGov to see upcoming payments.
Contact Centrelink
- If your payment hasn’t arrived or seems incorrect, call Centrelink or visit a local office.
Visit Services Australia
- For more details, go to Services Australia.
Tips to Manage Rising Living Costs
Even with extra payments, budgeting and financial planning can help stretch your money further.
1. Create a Budget
Track your income and expenses using a budgeting app. Prioritize essentials like rent, utilities, and food.
2. Maximize Government Support
Check if you qualify for other benefits, such as concession cards, additional rebates, or state-level assistance.
3. Save on Energy Bills
- Compare providers for cheaper electricity rates.
- Use energy-efficient appliances and reduce peak-time usage.
4. Seek Community Support
- Local charities offer food vouchers and financial aid.
- Community centers provide free meals and emergency housing.
5. Consider Financial Counseling
Free financial counseling services like the National Debt Helpline (ndh.org.au) offer help with budgeting and debt management.
With higher payments for pensions, JobSeeker, rent assistance, and energy rebates, Centrelink’s updates provide essential financial relief for Australians in 2025.
To maximize your benefits:
Check your MyGov account for payment updates.
Ensure your details are correct to avoid delays.
Use extra government support to manage rising costs.
Staying informed helps you navigate financial challenges and make the most of available assistance.
FAQs
Who qualifies for the increased Centrelink payments?
Age pensioners, JobSeeker recipients, renters, and those on disability support.
Do I need to apply for the cost of living payment?
No, payments are automatically adjusted for eligible Centrelink recipients.
How much is the energy rebate in 2025?
Eligible households receive a $300 rebate on energy bills.
When do the new payment rates start?
The updated payments take effect in September 2025.
How do I check my Centrelink payment status?
Log into MyGov and check your Centrelink payment details.
