Australians will see major financial and social support changes in 2025, with new payments, welfare boosts, and policy updates designed to ease the pressure of rising living costs. From a $700 one-off Cost of Living Payment to ongoing pension increases and new housing support schemes, the government is rolling out measures aimed at helping households stay financially secure.
Key Benefits Coming in 2025
| Program/Payment | Amount/Details | Timing |
|---|---|---|
| Cost-of-Living Payment | $700 one-off for eligible recipients | Sept–Oct 2025 |
| Pension Boosts | Up to $29.70 increase per fortnight | From 20 Sept 2025 |
| Help to Buy Scheme | Up to 40% shared equity on homes | Ongoing in 2025 |
| Commonwealth Rent Assistance | 75c per dollar over rent threshold | Ongoing |
| Subsidised Childcare | 3 days free childcare weekly | From Jan 2026 |
Centrelink Cost of Living Payment
- Eligible Age Pensioners, Disability Support Pension (DSP) recipients, and Carers will receive a $700 one-off payment.
- Deposits will be made automatically between September and October 2025.
- No application is required if you already receive a qualifying payment.
Pension and Welfare Indexation
From 20 September 2025, pensions and other benefits will be permanently indexed to keep pace with inflation.
- Singles on the Age Pension will see up to $29.70 extra per fortnight.
- Couples will receive increases as well, ensuring payments reflect higher household costs.
Housing and Rent Assistance
Help to Buy Scheme
- First-home buyers can access up to 40% shared equity contributions from the government.
- Designed to reduce mortgage sizes and make housing more affordable.
Commonwealth Rent Assistance
- Renters in private and community housing will benefit from non-taxable subsidies.
- Assistance is based on income and rent paid, helping ease rising rental costs.
Employment Law and Worker Protections
Several changes in 2025 strengthen workplace rights:
- Minimum wage and superannuation contributions will rise.
- Queensland introduces new anti-harassment workplace plans.
- NSW unions gain stronger powers to enforce workplace safety.
These updates aim to give employees better financial security and safer work environments.
Extra Family and Senior Support
- Childcare subsidy changes from January 2026: families will be eligible for 3 days of free childcare per week, reducing reliance on the existing activity test.
- Older Australians benefit from expanded Medicare bulk-billing, higher pensions, and additional relief programs to offset rising healthcare and living costs.
FAQs
Q1. Who will get the $700 Cost of Living Payment in 2025?
Eligible Age Pension, DSP, and Carer Payment recipients will receive it automatically.
Q2. Do I need to apply for the new payments?
No. If you already qualify, Centrelink will deposit payments into your account.
Q3. How much will the pension increase in September 2025?
Up to $29.70 per fortnight for singles, with additional increases for couples.
Q4. What is the Help to Buy Scheme?
It’s a government program offering up to 40% shared equity to make homeownership easier.
Q5. When will the free childcare changes start?
From January 2026, families will be entitled to 3 days of free childcare weekly.
Final Thoughts
The 2025 benefits package brings meaningful relief for Australians struggling with housing, childcare, and living costs. With extra Centrelink payments, indexed pensions, rent assistance, and workplace protections, households can expect stronger financial security. Families and older Australians are especially set to benefit from these reforms.
Now is the time to check your Centrelink details on myGov to ensure you don’t miss out on upcoming payments.