Rising rent, expensive groceries, and soaring utility bills are putting pressure on Australian households. To help ease the burden, Centrelink is offering a one-off $500 Crisis Payment for eligible Australians — but there’s a strict deadline. Applications must be submitted by September 30, 2025.
If you’re struggling financially, here’s everything you need to know to claim this vital support.
What Is the $500 Crisis Payment?
The Crisis Payment is a tax-free, one-off financial support from Centrelink. It is designed to help people who are facing serious hardship caused by an emergency or unexpected event.
Unlike ongoing benefits, this is short-term relief, aimed at covering urgent expenses when money is tight.
Who Can Apply?
Eligibility depends on personal circumstances. You may be able to receive the $500 payment if you:
- Recently lost your job and are experiencing financial stress.
- Have faced an emergency that caused unexpected costs.
- Already receive Centrelink payments but are dealing with additional hardship.
Note: Not everyone on Centrelink will qualify automatically. Each claim is individually assessed.
Why the Payment Matters
With inflation still affecting everyday essentials, this $500 payment can make a real difference for:
- Struggling families trying to keep up with rent and bills.
- Pensioners living on fixed incomes.
- Jobseekers and students on low budgets.
- Individuals dealing with sudden financial shocks.
It’s designed to provide short-term breathing room so people can cover urgent expenses without falling further behind.
Deadline to Apply
- Final date: Monday, September 30, 2025
- How to apply: Submit your claim through myGov (linked to Centrelink).
- Where to find it: Go to Payments and Claims → Payees → Crisis Payment.
- What you’ll need: Upload supporting documents that show financial hardship.
Applications after the deadline will not be accepted.
Quick Guide: How to Claim
Follow these steps to lodge your claim before time runs out:
- Log in to your myGov account linked to Centrelink.
- Go to Payments and Claims.
- Select Payees → Crisis Payment.
- Attach supporting documents (proof of hardship or emergency).
- Submit your claim before September 30, 2025.
FAQs About the $500 Crisis Payment
1. Is the $500 Centrelink payment taxable?
No. It is a tax-free payment.
2. Can I apply if I already get Centrelink benefits?
Yes, but eligibility depends on your specific hardship.
3. Can I receive this payment more than once?
No, it is a one-off payment.
4. How long does it take to receive the money?
Payments are usually made within a few business days once your claim is approved.
5. What happens if I miss the deadline?
You will not be able to claim the payment after September 30, 2025.
Final Thoughts
The $500 Crisis Payment is a much-needed lifeline for Australians struggling with rising living costs. With the deadline approaching on September 30, 2025, it’s important to act quickly.
If you think you qualify, don’t wait — log in to myGov today and submit your claim. This one-off support could provide the extra help you need to stay on top of bills and get through the weeks ahead.