Centrelink payments are set to increase automatically from 20 September 2025. This update reflects government adjustments to address inflation and cost-of-living pressures. Millions of Australians receiving social security benefits will see changes in their fortnightly payments without needing to apply again.
Age Pension Payment Boost Offers Greater Financial Relief
From 20 September 2025, the maximum Age Pension payment for singles will rise by $29.70 per fortnight, reaching $1,178.70. For couples, the increase totals $44.80 per fortnight combined, which works out to $888.50 each. These changes are part of an indexation process that reflects economic factors affecting living costs. The updated payments aim to provide ongoing financial support to retirees and pensioners across Australia.
JobSeeker Payments Increase to Support Australians in Need
The JobSeeker Payment will also increase starting 20 September 2025. Singles with no children will receive $793.60 per fortnight, up $12.50 from previous rates. Partnered recipients will see an increase of $11.40, with a new fortnightly payment of $726.50 each. Those with partial work capacity or acting as principal carers may receive up to $1,027 per fortnight. These adjustments assist people facing unemployment or temporary work incapacity to meet essential expenses.
Other Centrelink Payments Receive Significant Increases
Carer Payment and Disability Support Pension recipients will benefit from increases of $29.70 per fortnight for singles and $44.80 combined for couples. Youth Allowance for singles will rise by $27.00, setting a new limit of $1,910.84 per fortnight. ABSTUDY payments for eligible Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students and apprentices will increase to $793.60 for those 22 years or older. Parenting Payments for single parents will increase by $16.20 to $1,039.70 per fortnight, with partnered parents receiving an $11.40 rise to $734.30.
Figure 1: Fortnightly payment increase amounts for all Centrelink benefits from September 2025
Rent Assistance and Energy Supplements Address Rising Costs
Rent Assistance rates will also see modest increases from September. Single recipients will gain an additional $3.40, bringing the payment to $215.40 per fortnight. Couples will see their rate increase to $203.00 per fortnight, up from $199.80. These changes aim to support renters facing rising housing costs.
An energy supplement of approximately $8.90 per fortnight will be paid alongside these Centrelink benefits. This supplement provides additional assistance with increasing energy costs affecting many Australians.
Government Highlights Benefits of Increased Support for Recipients
Social Services Minister Tanya Plibersek said the government wants to “help take the pressure off” for Australians facing cost-of-living challenges. She stated, “Thanks to indexation, millions of Aussies will receive a boost to their payment to help them cover everyday costs like groceries and healthcare.” She also highlighted other government measures such as tax cuts, cheaper medicines, and energy bill relief which complement the payment increases. Plibersek emphasised the government’s commitment to fairness and ensuring no one gets left behind.
Eligibility and Application Process
Recipients do not need to reapply for these payment changes as they occur automatically on 20 September 2025. New applicants for JobSeeker or other Centrelink benefits must meet standard eligibility criteria, including income and asset tests. Applications can be submitted through the Centrelink online portal via myGov or by phone. Proof of identity, income, and residency is required during the application process.
Mutual Obligation Requirements
JobSeeker recipients must continue to meet mutual obligation requirements to maintain their payments. These include actively seeking employment, attending training or interviews, and reporting any changes in circumstances. Temporary exemptions apply in cases of illness or other serious personal issues.
Widespread Impact: How Payment Increases Assist Australian Households
These payment increases aim to provide critical financial support to Australians affected by inflation and economic changes. The indexation ensures social security payments keep pace with living costs, helping households manage expenses such as housing, food, utilities, and healthcare. The government’s ongoing measures form part of a broader social safety net to protect vulnerable populations.
Figure 2: Benefits of Payment Increase
Summary of Key Payment Increases (From 20 September 2025)
The Centrelink payment updates are effective immediately from 20 September 2025. Australians receiving these benefits will see the adjustments directly in their bank accounts. This change marks another step in the government’s annual review to support community welfare and economic resilience. Recipients can monitor their updated payment details via Centrelink’s online services or mobile app.
