The Australian Government has officially rolled out a $250 one-off cost of living payment to support millions of residents battling inflation and everyday expense hikes.
Designed as a temporary relief measure, this tax-free payment will be deposited in May 2025 to eligible citizens who meet specific benefit or concession criteria.
With energy prices, fuel costs, and grocery bills continuing to strain household budgets, this financial assistance targets those who need it the most. Here’s a detailed look at who qualifies, how much is paid, and when to expect your payment.
What Is the $250 One-Off Cost of Living Payment?
The $250 cost of living payment is a single, non-taxable payment aimed at offering quick financial support. It will be delivered directly to eligible Australians, including pensioners, welfare recipients, and low-income earners.
This initiative is part of the broader economic response to help reduce the financial burden caused by inflation, particularly for seniors, carers, and individuals on income support.
Eligibility Criteria
To receive this one-off payment, an individual must have been residing in Australia and be receiving one or more qualifying government benefits or holding a concession card as of the eligibility date in May 2025.
Eligible Payments & Cards Include:
| Eligible Centrelink/DVA Payments | Eligible Concession Cards |
|---|---|
| Age Pension | Commonwealth Seniors Health Card |
| Disability Support Pension | Pensioner Concession Card |
| Carer Payment | DVA Gold Card |
| Carer Allowance (not on income support) | |
| JobSeeker Payment | |
| Parenting Payment | |
| Youth Allowance | |
| Austudy | |
| ABSTUDY (Living Allowance) | |
| Special Benefit | |
| Farm Household Allowance | |
| Double Orphan Pension | |
| DVA Income Support |
Important: Even if you qualify under multiple categories, you will only receive one payment of $250.
Payment Amount and Method
The payment amount is fixed:
- One-Time Payment: $250 per eligible person
- Payment Method: Bank deposit or cheque, depending on your account preferences with Centrelink or DVA.
No application is needed—if you’re eligible, the amount will be transferred automatically.
Payment Schedule for May 2025
All eligible recipients can expect to receive their payment between the first and third week of May 2025. Below is a tentative schedule:
| Eligibility Confirmed By | Payment Issued On | Expected Bank Deposit |
|---|---|---|
| 1 May 2025 | 3 May 2025 | 6–9 May 2025 |
| 5 May 2025 | 7 May 2025 | 9–13 May 2025 |
| 8 May 2025 | 10 May 2025 | 13–16 May 2025 |
Those receiving cheques may see delivery delays of up to 5 business days.
How to Ensure You Receive the Payment
To avoid delays or missed payments:
- Ensure your banking and contact details are up to date with Centrelink or DVA.
- Verify your eligibility status by logging into your myGov account.
- If you recently changed benefits or card status, reconfirm your details with the service agency.
Is the Payment Taxable or Reportable?
No, the $250 cost of living payment is non-taxable and won’t be counted as income for other welfare or payment calculations. It is designed to give recipients a financial boost without affecting their existing benefits.
The $250 one-off cost of living payment is a much-needed financial relief for Australians coping with rising expenses in 2025. Whether you’re on the Age Pension, Carer Payment, JobSeeker, or hold a qualifying concession card, this payment is automatically processed—no application required.
Australians are encouraged to update their details and monitor their myGov accounts for confirmation. With the payments rolling out in May 2025, this initiative will offer timely support to those who need it most.
Stay informed and prepared to make the most of this financial assistance. Every dollar matters—especially when times are tough.
FAQs
Can I receive more than one $250 payment?
No. Even if you qualify under several categories (e.g., Age Pension and Carer Allowance), you will only receive one $250 payment.
Will this affect my other Centrelink payments?
No. The payment is non-assessable and will not impact your current payments or entitlements.
What if I haven’t received the payment by mid-May?
If you believe you are eligible but haven’t received your payment by 20 May 2025, you should contact Centrelink or DVA to investigate.