Rising living costs continue to weigh heavily on Australian households, but relief is on the way. From 1st October 2025, eligible Centrelink recipients will receive a one-off boost between $390 and $1,561, depending on their payment type. These extra payments are designed to help pensioners, job seekers, and low-income earners manage essential expenses such as food, utilities, and medical bills.
So, who qualifies for these payments, and when will the money arrive? Let’s break it down.
Who Will Receive the $390 Centrelink Payment?
The $390 support payment is aimed at people on working-age benefits who are struggling most with short-term expenses. This includes:
- JobSeeker recipients
- Youth Allowance recipients
- Parenting Payment recipients
- Other approved Centrelink allowances
This one-off relief is meant to help cover basic costs such as groceries, transport, and utilities.
Who Qualifies for the $1,561 Payment?
A larger $1,561 deposit will be made to Australians on pensions and long-term support payments. Eligible groups include:
- Age Pensioners
- Disability Support Pension (DSP) recipients
- Carer Payment recipients
For seniors and carers, this payment provides much-needed help with healthcare, rent, and everyday living costs. It also aligns with regular pension indexation to ensure payments keep up with inflation and wage growth.
When Will Payments Arrive?
- Payments start from 1st October 2025.
- Deposits will roll out automatically to eligible accounts.
- Exact dates may vary depending on:
- Your benefit type (weekly or fortnightly schedule)
- Your bank’s processing times
Most recipients can expect to see the funds in their account by the first week of October.
Why These Payments Matter
With prices for rent, fuel, food, and medical costs rising, these Centrelink deposits provide:
- Immediate financial relief – extra support when bills are due.
- Security for seniors – especially those struggling with healthcare and housing costs.
- Temporary stability for young Australians – giving students and job seekers breathing space.
Quick Overview
| Payment Amount | Who Gets It | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| $390 | JobSeeker, Youth Allowance, Parenting Payment recipients | Short-term relief for essentials |
| $1,561 | Pensioners, DSP recipients, Carers | Support for living and medical costs |
FAQs
1. Do I need to apply for these payments?
No. Payments will be deposited automatically if you’re eligible.
2. When will I see the money in my account?
Most recipients will receive it by the first week of October, though dates can vary depending on your payment schedule and bank.
3. Can I receive both payments?
No. You’ll only receive the amount that applies to your current Centrelink payment type.
4. Is this payment ongoing or one-off?
It’s a one-off payment, in addition to your regular Centrelink benefits.
5. Will this affect my other benefits?
No. This is a bonus payment and does not reduce your existing entitlements.
Final Thoughts
The upcoming $390 and $1,561 Centrelink payments will provide crucial support to Australians most affected by the rising cost of living. Whether it’s a small relief for job seekers or a larger cushion for pensioners, these payments will ease financial pressure at a critical time.