Rising prices for essentials like food, energy, and housing have left many Australians struggling to make ends meet. To ease some of this pressure, the Federal Government has confirmed a one-off $750 Centrelink cost-of-living bonus that will start rolling out from 1st October 2025. This direct cash boost will support millions of pensioners, carers, and other welfare recipients.]
Who Will Receive the $750 Bonus?
The bonus will be paid automatically to people already receiving eligible Centrelink payments. There is no need to apply.
Eligible groups include:
- Age Pension recipients
- Disability Support Pension recipients
- Carer Payment recipients
- Parenting Payment recipients
- Veterans and war widows/widowers on qualifying payments
- Other Centrelink clients on eligible income support before the cut-off date
If you’re receiving one of these payments by the end of September 2025, you will qualify.
Why the $750 Payment Was Introduced
The one-off payment is designed to provide immediate relief for households most affected by the rising cost of living. With inflation continuing to drive up bills, groceries, and rents, this bonus is a short-term measure aimed at helping low- and fixed-income households cover essentials.
How and When Payments Will Be Made
- Start date: 1st October 2025
- Payment method: Direct deposit into the same bank account used for your regular Centrelink payments
- Processing time: Most payments will arrive within a few days, though some may take longer depending on banking arrangements
There is no separate application process. Payments will be added automatically once eligibility is confirmed.
Impact on Households
While not a permanent solution, the $750 bonus provides immediate financial breathing space. Many recipients are expected to use it for:
- Energy and water bills
- Groceries and essentials
- Rent or mortgage support
- Medical or health-related costs
For pensioners, carers, and families on low incomes, this extra support will be especially valuable heading into the busy end-of-year period.
Government’s Broader Plans
The government has also signalled it is considering longer-term strategies, such as:
- Reviewing regular pension and allowance rates
- Expanding energy bill relief programs
- Strengthening welfare safety nets for vulnerable groups
The $750 bonus is just one step in a wider plan to ease cost-of-living pressures across Australia.
FAQs About the $750 Centrelink Bonus
1. Do I need to apply for the $750 bonus?
No, payments will be made automatically to eligible Centrelink recipients.
2. When will the payment arrive?
Payments will begin from 1st October 2025, with most people receiving funds within days.
3. Who is eligible?
Age pensioners, carers, people on the Disability Support Pension, Parenting Payment recipients, and certain veterans or widowed families.
4. Will the $750 affect my other Centrelink payments?
No, this is a one-off, tax-free bonus and does not reduce your regular payments.
5. Can I get the payment if I apply for Centrelink after October 2025?
No, you must already be receiving a qualifying payment before the cut-off date.
Final Thoughts
The $750 Centrelink bonus in October 2025 will bring short-term relief to millions of Australians struggling with rising costs. By targeting pensioners, carers, and vulnerable households, the government aims to provide practical support exactly where it’s needed most.
If you’re already on an eligible payment, you don’t need to do anything—your bonus will arrive automatically. For many households, this one-off payment could make a real difference as cost-of-living pressures continue to grow.