With inflation and everyday expenses still putting pressure on Australian households, the government is stepping in once again to offer financial relief. A one-off $497 Cost of Living Relief Payment will be distributed in April 2025 to help eligible Australians manage rising costs.
This non-taxable payment will be credited directly into the bank accounts of qualified recipients, offering immediate support for essentials like groceries, bills, and fuel.
What Is the $497 Cost of Living Relief Payment?
The $497 payment is part of a broader effort to assist Australians receiving government benefits, especially those on low or fixed incomes. This automatic, one-time payment does not require a separate application and will be issued through Services Australia.
It is aimed at helping vulnerable groups, including age pensioners, carers, unemployed individuals, youth support recipients, and people with disabilities.
Who Is Eligible?
To qualify for the $497 Cost of Living Payment, individuals must meet the following criteria:
- Be residing in Australia as of March 31, 2025
- Receive any of the following Centrelink payments:
- Age Pension
- Disability Support Pension
- Carer Payment
- JobSeeker Payment
- Parenting Payment
- Youth Allowance
- Austudy or Abstudy
- Veteran Service Pension
- Hold a Pensioner Concession Card
There is no need to apply. If eligible, the payment will be made automatically into your nominated bank account.
When Will You Receive It?
The $497 payment will be deposited between April 15 and April 30, 2025, depending on your regular payment cycle.
To avoid delays, ensure your bank account information is updated and accurate in your myGov or Centrelink account before April 10, 2025.
Payment Overview
| Payment Type | Fortnightly Amount | One-Off Payment | Total in April 2025 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Age Pension | $1,149.00 | $497 | $1,646.00 |
| Disability Support Pension | $1,149.00 | $497 | $1,646.00 |
| Carer Payment | $1,149.00 | $497 | $1,646.00 |
| JobSeeker (Single) | $789.90 | $497 | $1,286.90 |
| Parenting Payment | $1,030.30 | $497 | $1,527.30 |
| Youth Allowance (18+, at home) | $477.10 | $497 | $974.10 |
| Austudy | $602.80 | $497 | $1,099.80 |
Note: Figures reflect rates for single individuals. Couple and dependent rates may differ.
Read More: Aussies Could Get Up To $750 In Pension Support This April – Check Eligibility Now!
How to Prepare
To ensure timely receipt of your $497 payment, follow these steps:
- Log into myGov and check your linked Centrelink account.
- Verify your banking details to avoid failed transactions.
- Review your payment history and Centrelink correspondence for updates.
- Avoid delays by ensuring all your records are accurate and up to date.
The $497 Cost of Living Relief Payment in April 2025 offers much-needed support to Australians hit hardest by rising expenses. If you’re receiving eligible Centrelink benefits, this one-off payment could provide a welcome financial buffer. There’s no need to apply—just ensure your account details are correct, and the money will be sent your way.
This initiative reaffirms the government’s focus on supporting its citizens through economic uncertainty, giving relief when it’s needed most.
FAQs
Is this payment taxable?
No. The $497 payment is non-taxable and will not reduce or affect your existing Centrelink payments.
Do I need to apply?
No. The payment will be automatically issued to all eligible individuals without any application process.
What if I change banks before April?
You must update your new bank details in your myGov or Centrelink account by April 10, 2025, to avoid delays.