The cost of living in Australia continues to rise, putting pressure on families, pensioners, carers, and job seekers. To help ease the burden, Centrelink payments will increase from 20 September 2025. This adjustment, delivered by Services Australia, will boost fortnightly payments across multiple welfare programs.
Whether you’re on the Age Pension, JobSeeker, Youth Allowance, or Carer Payment, this increase is designed to give you extra financial support. Here’s everything you need to know about the upcoming changes.
Why Are Centrelink Payments Increasing?
Two main reasons explain the September 2025 boost:
- Indexation – A routine adjustment that ensures payments keep pace with inflation.
- Government-Initiated Increase – An additional rise introduced to address cost-of-living pressures faced by Australians.
Together, these adjustments help vulnerable groups maintain their purchasing power in a challenging economy.
Who Is Eligible for the Increase?
You don’t need to apply or submit new forms. If you already receive a qualifying Centrelink payment, the new rate will automatically apply from 20 September 2025.
Eligible groups include:
- Pensioners (Age Pension, Disability Support Pension, Transitional Pension)
- Carers (Carer Payment and Carer Allowance)
- Job seekers on JobSeeker Payment
- Young people on Youth Allowance or ABSTUDY
- Parents receiving Parenting Payment
- Families receiving Family Tax Benefits
- Claimants of the Stillborn Baby Payment
New Centrelink Rates from 20 September 2025
Below is a summary of the fortnightly payment increases:
| Benefit Type | Previous Rate | New Rate | Increase |
|---|---|---|---|
| Age Pension (single) | $1,149.00 | $1,178.70 | +$29.70 |
| Age Pension (partnered) | $866.10 | $888.50 | +$22.40 |
| Transitional Pension (single) | $944.80 | $959.70 | +$14.90 |
| Transitional Pension (partnered) | $762.30 | $774.30 | +$12.00 |
| Pension Bonus Scheme | $2,640.30 | $2,710.90 | +$70.60 |
| JobSeeker (single) | $781.10 | $793.60 | +$12.50 |
| JobSeeker (with children) | $836.50 | $849.90 | +$13.40 |
| Youth Allowance | $1,011.50 | $1,027.70 | +$16.20 |
| ABSTUDY | $83.60 | $84.90 | +$1.30 |
These new amounts will be automatically deposited into your nominated bank account.
Payment Schedule
- Start Date: 20 September 2025
- Frequency: Fortnightly (no changes to payment dates)
- Next Review: March 2026 (payments are reviewed twice a year)
Make sure your MyGov account and bank details are updated to avoid payment delays.
Programs Affected by the Increase
The following Centrelink programs will benefit from the September 2025 rise:
- Age Pension
- Carer Payment & Carer Allowance
- Disability Support Pension
- JobSeeker Payment
- Youth Allowance & ABSTUDY
- Parenting Payment
- Family Tax Benefit
- Stillborn Baby Payment
FAQs – Centrelink Payment Increase 2025
1. When will the new payment rates start?
From 20 September 2025.
2. Do I need to apply for the increase?
No, payments will update automatically if you’re eligible.
3. Which benefits are included?
Age Pension, JobSeeker, Carer Payment, Youth Allowance, Parenting Payment, ABSTUDY, Family Tax Benefit, and more.
4. Will payments still be fortnightly?
Yes, the payment schedule remains unchanged.
5. Why is there an extra increase this year?
To address inflation and cost-of-living pressures.
Final Thoughts
The Centrelink Payment Increase 2025 is a welcome relief for millions of Australians facing rising living expenses. While the boost may not cover every financial challenge, it offers valuable support for day-to-day costs such as food, bills, and housing.
If you already receive Centrelink benefits, there’s nothing you need to do—just check your MyGov account and ensure your bank details are current to receive the new rates from 20 September 2025.