People receiving support from Centrelink have noticed and appreciated the increases to fortnightly payments and see the changes as government support to try and relieve the pressure of living costs through the social welfare system reform. Here, we summarize the changes along with a table and common questions with new payment rates and eligibility.
Centrelink Payment Increases in 2025
In line with new changes to the payments rate and cost of living changes, the government will now include JobSeeker, Age Pension, Disability Support Pension, Youth Allowance, and Parenting Payment to welfare payments. All these will have increases along with the inflation rates starting January 2025. To lift the living standards of Australians and promote economic stability, these rates will provide some relieve disposable income for social security government welfare recipients.
Details of New Fortnightly Rates
The increases in payments will be from $15 to $45 depending on the payment and recipients will see these increases on their fortnightly payment. In the case of a single JobSeeker recipient, the payment increases to just over $812.60. Increases will also be seen by age pensioners and couples. This review of social security benchmarks and increases is a result of advocacy from welfare groups.
Modifications in Eligibility and Indexation
There haven’t been any changes to the criteria for eligibility, and every six months — in March and September — the payments continue to be adjusted for changes in the consumer price index. Adjustments for inflation increase payments every six months to ensure economic stability. The government recognizes the economic pressure on and supports single parents, the elderly, and the long-term unemployed.
Effects on Households and Families
The changes on the provision of payments will benefit more than five million people. For most families, the increased payments will allow for more flexible budgets and less financial pressure. Advocates for the welfare of the elderly and disabled predict a harm reduction in the health and welfare of children, disabled people, elderly people, and disabled Australians. The government has given community organizations additional funds to help manage the change
What Australians Should Do Next
There will be no need for any eligible Australians to reapply for the payments and they will be made available automatically. For any recipients that need to confirm payments, Centrelink payment calculators and the Advisory Services of Australia will be available for inquiries. All recipients of the payment will need to keep Centrelink updated on any changes to their circumstances if they need to be streamlined .
Data Table: Core Centrelink Rates 2025
| Payment Type | Previous Rate | New Rate (2025) |
|---|---|---|
| JobSeeker Single | $797.00 | $812.60 |
| Age Pension Single | $1,095.00 | $1,120.00 |
| Youth Allowance | $345.00 | $360.00 |
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Do I need to reapply for increased payments?
No, the higher rates are paid automatically to eligible recipients.
Q2: How are payments adjusted for inflation?
ayments are adjusted for inflation based on the Consumer Price Index inflation rates published by the Australian Bureau of Statistics, which occurs every January and July.
Q3: How can I check my new payment amount?
The latest payment amounts can be found on the Centrelink website and personal statements are accessible via myGov.
