Australian farmers face challenges that city households rarely experience—droughts, floods, rising input costs, and fluctuating markets. To help manage financial stress, the government provides the Farm Household Allowance (FHA). From 20 September 2025, most eligible farmers will continue to receive $663.30 per fortnight, with some payment adjustments depending on individual or partnered status.
What is the Farm Household Allowance?
The Farm Household Allowance is a Centrelink payment delivered by Services Australia to support farmers and their partners during times of hardship. It’s not a one-off bonus but an ongoing benefit that:
- Pays fortnightly into your bank account.
- Can be claimed for up to 4 years in any 10-year period.
- Helps cover essential living costs like food, bills, and fuel.
- Includes case management support to plan for long-term farm sustainability.
Payment Details – September 2025
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Payment Name | Farm Household Allowance (FHA) |
| Authority | Centrelink / Services Australia |
| Rate (Single) | $663.30 per fortnight |
| Duration | Up to 4 years in a 10-year period |
| Effective Date | 20 September 2025 |
| Payment Frequency | Fortnightly |
| Purpose | Support for farmers facing financial hardship |
Who Can Qualify?
To access FHA in 2025, farmers must meet key criteria:
- Residency – Must be an Australian resident.
- Age – Minimum age of 16.
- Farm Activity – Must run or contribute to a commercial farm (not hobby farming).
- Duration Rule – Claimable for only 4 years within 10 years.
- Assets Test – Combined assets (farm + personal) must be under $5.5 million.
- Income Test – Household income must stay under set limits.
Income Limits (September 2025)
| Farmer Situation | Income Limit (per fortnight) |
|---|---|
| Single, no child | $1,484.17 |
| Single, age 55+ (on FHA > 9 months) | $1,589.00 |
| Single with child under 16 | $1,577.67 |
| Single principal carer (exempt) | $2,725.75 |
| Partnered (no pension, farmer income test applies) | $1,372.67 minus farmer income |
| Partnered (partner on pension) | $2,745.67 minus combined income |
How to Claim
Farmers can apply online or at a Centrelink service centre. The easiest way is through myGov:
- Log in to myGov and link Centrelink.
- Go to Payments & Claims > Farm Household Allowance.
- Provide details about income, assets, and farm activity.
- Upload required documents (ID, financial records, farm ownership details).
- Submit and wait for assessment.
Payments usually begin within a few weeks if all documents are accurate.
Why This Matters in 2025
The FHA gives struggling farmers a reliable $663.30 per fortnight, helping them manage basic costs while adjusting their farm business. Beyond cash support, the program also offers:
- Financial counselling and planning assistance.
- Guidance on debt management.
- Training opportunities to diversify income.
FAQs
Q1: How much is the Farm Household Allowance in September 2025?
Most single farmers will receive $663.30 per fortnight.
Q2: Can both a farmer and their partner receive FHA?
Yes, as long as they meet joint income and asset tests.
Q3: How long can I stay on FHA?
Up to 4 years within a 10-year period.
Q4: Do I need to reapply for the September 2025 update?
No, rates update automatically if you’re already eligible.
Q5: Does FHA cover debts?
It doesn’t pay debts directly but provides income support to cover essentials while you manage finances.
Final Thoughts
The $663 Centrelink Farm Household Allowance (September 2025) is a lifeline for Australian farmers battling financial stress. By meeting the residency, income, and asset rules, eligible farmers can secure steady fortnightly payments while planning for long-term stability.
For many rural families, this payment isn’t just money—it’s a chance to hold on, adapt, and rebuild in tough times.