As the cost of living continues to rise across Australia, many citizens are looking for relief through Centrelink benefits.
While no new one-off Cost of Living Payment has been announced for April 2025, significant support is being provided through increased indexed payments, effective from March 20, 2025.
These updates aim to help Australians cope with escalating costs for food, housing, and utilities.
Here’s a comprehensive overview of the current payment updates, eligibility criteria, how to check your payment status, and options for Advance Payments.
No New One-Off Payment in April 2025
The widely discussed $250 one-off Cost of Living Payment that was last issued in April 2022 has not returned in 2025.
However, the government continues to combat inflation through routine indexation, helping Centrelink recipients maintain their purchasing power amid economic stress.
| Update | Details |
|---|---|
| One-off Payment in April 2025 | None announced |
| Indexation Changes Effective | March 20, 2025 |
| Payment Type | Regular Centrelink benefits adjusted |
Updated Centrelink Payment Rates (March 2025 Indexation)
Age Pension
- Single recipients now receive $1,149.00 per fortnight
- Couples receive $866.10 per person per fortnight
JobSeeker Payment
- Single individuals with no children now receive $789.90 per fortnight
- Eligibility includes those actively job-seeking and passing income/asset tests
Parenting Payment (Single)
- Increased to $1,030.30 per fortnight, aiding single parents with children under 8
Rent Assistance
- Maximum rates have been raised by up to $87.92, helping with rising rental costs
What Is Indexation and Why It Matters
Indexation adjusts welfare payments to match inflation trends, ensuring beneficiaries are not left behind when prices rise.
Payments are reviewed twice annually—in March and September—to reflect the current economic environment.
These updates are essential in safeguarding vulnerable communities from the impact of rising living expenses.
Who Is Eligible?
Eligibility for Centrelink benefits depends on age, income, assets, and specific life situations. Here’s a quick overview:
| Payment Type | Eligibility Criteria |
|---|---|
| Age Pension | 66.5–67+ years old, income and assets tested |
| JobSeeker Payment | Must be job-seeking and within income/assets thresholds |
| Parenting Payment | Single parents of children under 8; partnered parents if child is under 6 |
| Youth Allowance | Full-time students/apprentices aged 16–24 |
| Carer Payment | Full-time carers for people with disabilities or severe medical conditions |
How to Check Your Centrelink Payments
To stay informed about payments, follow this step-by-step process:
- Log into myGov
- Link your Centrelink account
- Navigate to “Payments and Claims”
- Click on “Payment History” to view past and scheduled payments
- Visit “Manage Advance Payments” if applying for upfront financial assistance
Advance Payment Option Available
Eligible Centrelink recipients can request an Advance Payment to cover sudden or urgent financial needs. This option provides a portion of future entitlements upfront, to be repaid gradually.
Eligible for Advance Payment:
- Age Pension recipients
- JobSeeker Payment recipients
- Youth Allowance or Austudy recipients
- Parenting Payment recipients
Warning: Avoid Online Scams
In April 2025, several fraudulent websites and social media posts claim that Australians can get new $750 or $1,900 Centrelink payments.
These are not official. For accurate updates, always rely on government websites ending in “.gov.au” and never share personal details unless logged into a secure official platform.
Real-Life Example
Margaret, a 70-year-old pensioner from Melbourne, shares that although she hoped for a bonus in April 2025, the indexed increase has helped.
“With food and fuel getting more expensive, every few dollars really count,” she says. “I log into my myGov account once a week to keep track of what’s coming in.”
While there is no new lump-sum payment in April 2025, Centrelink’s indexed increases are delivering much-needed relief to Australians facing financial pressure.
From age pensioners to job seekers, the updates ensure support stays in line with inflation. Staying informed through official channels and exploring options like Advance Payments can help recipients better manage financial stress and plan ahead.
FAQs
Is there a new Centrelink Cost of Living Payment in April 2025?
No, there is no new one-off payment, but increased indexed payments took effect in March 2025.
How can recipients apply for Advance Payments?
Eligible individuals can apply through their myGov account by visiting the Manage Advance Payments section.
Who qualifies for the Age Pension in 2025?
Individuals aged 66.5 or 67+, who meet residency, income, and assets tests, may be eligible.