From 20 September 2025, millions of Australians will see a permanent increase in their Centrelink payments. Known as the Centrelink Cash Boost 2025, this rise comes from the government’s regular indexation, ensuring welfare payments keep up with the rising cost of living. Unlike one-off bonuses, this is a permanent adjustment, meaning recipients will continue to benefit in every future payment cycle.
What Is the Centrelink Cash Boost 2025?
The September boost is part of biannual indexation that happens each March and September. It ensures pensions, allowances, and family payments stay aligned with inflation and wage growth.
- Start Date: 20 September 2025
- Type: Permanent increase (not a one-off)
- Payment Method: Automatic, via Services Australia
- Application Needed: None – adjustments are automatic
New Centrelink Rates from September 2025
Here’s a snapshot of the updated increases:
| Payment Type | Increase (per fortnight) | Effective Date |
|---|---|---|
| Age Pension | Up to $29.70 | 20 Sept 2025 |
| Disability Support Pension | Up to $29.70 | 20 Sept 2025 |
| Carer Payment | Up to $29.70 | 20 Sept 2025 |
| JobSeeker Payment | Smaller increases | 20 Sept 2025 |
| Austudy / ABSTUDY | Smaller increases | 20 Sept 2025 |
| Parenting Payment / Rent Assistance | Varies by household type | 20 Sept 2025 |
All payments are non-taxable and deposited directly into recipients’ nominated bank accounts.
Who Will Benefit from the Cash Boost?
The increase applies automatically to those already receiving eligible payments. This includes:
- Pensioners (Age Pension, DSP, Carer Payment)
- Job seekers on JobSeeker Payment
- Students on Austudy or ABSTUDY
- Parents receiving Parenting Payment
- Households receiving Rent Assistance
General Eligibility Requirements
- Must be an Australian resident at the time of payment
- Must meet income and asset test rules for your specific benefit
- Most recipients must be 18 or older (student payments may apply to younger people)
Why the September 2025 Boost Matters
This boost provides more than just numbers on paper. For many households, it can mean:
- Paying rent without falling short
- Buying fresh groceries instead of cheaper substitutes
- Covering rising utility bills more comfortably
- Greater stability with predictable, permanent increases
How to Check Your New Payment Rate
No application is required, but to confirm your updated amount:
- Log in to your myGov account
- Go to the Centrelink section for payment details
- Ensure bank account details are current
- Contact Services Australia if you notice delays or errors
Impact on Different Groups
- Pensioners & carers: Gain the most, with almost $30 more every fortnight
- Job seekers & students: Smaller but still vital increases
- Families: Parenting and rent support provide much-needed relief for households balancing childcare and housing
FAQs – Centrelink Cash Boost September 2025
1. Do I need to apply for the September 2025 boost?
No, the increase is automatic. Payments will adjust from 20 September 2025.
2. Who gets the largest increase?
Pensioners, Disability Support Pensioners, and carers receive up to $29.70 more each fortnight.
3. Will JobSeeker and student payments increase too?
Yes, but at smaller amounts compared to pensions.
4. How do I know my new rate?
Check through your myGov account or the Services Australia website.
5. Is the boost a one-off payment?
No, it is a permanent increase, applied every fortnight going forward.
Final Thoughts
The Centrelink Cash Boost September 2025 is more than just an adjustment—it’s a lifeline for millions of Australians managing rent, bills, and food costs. While the extra $20–30 per fortnight may not solve the cost-of-living crisis, it delivers reliable and ongoing support. By ensuring payments rise with inflation, the government helps households maintain stability in uncertain economic times.