Centrelink Increase Confirmed for May 2025: What’s Going Up and When You’ll Receive It
Centrelink Increase Confirmed for May 2025: In May 2025, the Australian Government has confirmed an increase in several Centrelink payments to help citizens cope with the rising cost of living. These adjustments include higher rates for JobSeeker, Age Pension, Youth Allowance, and Parenting Payments, along with a $780 one-off payment for pensioners.
This guide will walk you through what’s changing, who qualifies, how much you’ll receive, and when you’ll see the money in your bank account. Whether you’re a student, job seeker, single parent, or pensioner, these changes could directly affect your fortnightly budget and long-term financial planning.
Centrelink Increase Confirmed for May 2025
| Category | New Payment Rate (as of May 2025) | Notes | Official Source |
|---|---|---|---|
| JobSeeker (Single, no children) | $781.10 per fortnight | Indexed on March 20, 2025 | Services Australia |
| Age Pension (Single) | $1,149.00 per fortnight | Increased by $4.60 | Retirement Essentials |
| Youth Allowance (Single, 18+) | Up to $663.30 per fortnight | Indexed from January 1, 2025 | Services Australia |
| Parenting Payment (Single) | $982.20–$1,036.60 per fortnight | Depends on age group | ABC News |
| One-Off Pensioner Payment | $780 (once-off) | Rolling out May–July 2025 | Hudspeth.info |
The Centrelink increase confirmed for May 2025 provides much-needed relief to Australians navigating a higher cost of living. Whether you’re on JobSeeker, Age Pension, Youth Allowance, or Parenting Payment, these changes offer timely support and a slight financial cushion. The automatic nature of these increases simplifies access, while the $780 bonus offers targeted help to older Australians.
Why Centrelink Payments Are Increasing in 2025
Australia is facing continued economic pressures—higher grocery bills, energy prices, and rental costs. In response, the government has adjusted Centrelink support payments as part of its biannual indexation cycle (March and September). This ensures payments remain in line with the Consumer Price Index (CPI) and wage growth, helping vulnerable Australians maintain their purchasing power.
Indexation is not a bonus—it’s an inflation adjustment to protect the real value of support payments.
JobSeeker Payment Updates
New Fortnightly Rates (from March 20, 2025)
- Single, no children: $781.10
- Single with dependent children: $836.50
- Single, 55 or older, on support for 9+ months: $836.50
- Partnered: $715.10
- Single principal carer exempt from obligations: $1,011.50
These figures vary based on your relationship status, age, and number of dependents.
Age Pension Increases
New Fortnightly Rates (from March 20, 2025)
- Single: $1,149.00 (increase of $4.60)
- Couple (combined): $1,732.20 (increase of $7.00)
These modest increases reflect adjustments for inflation and ensure retirees can maintain purchasing power.
Youth Allowance Changes
New Fortnightly Rates (from January 1, 2025)
- Single, under 18, at home: $410.30
- Single, under 18, away from home: $663.30
- Single, 18+ at home: $472.50
- Single, 18+ away from home: $663.30
- Single with children: $836.60
- Couple, no children: $663.30
- Couple, with children: $718.10
Parenting Payment Boost
Updated Fortnightly Rates (as of March 20, 2025)
- Parenting Payment (Single, under Age Pension age): $982.20
- Parenting Payment (Single, over Age Pension age): $1,036.60
The Parenting Payment is income-tested and supports the primary carer of a young child.
$780 One-Off Pensioner Payment
The $780 support payment is a one-time boost for eligible pensioners.
Eligibility Criteria
- Aged 67 or older
- Australian citizen/permanent resident (10+ years)
- Receiving Age Pension via Centrelink
- Meets income and assets test
Payment Timeline
Payments began in May 2025 and will continue through July 2025. Most eligible recipients will receive it automatically.
When Will You Receive the Updated Payments?
Most increases from indexation are applied automatically to your regular payment schedule.
For the $780 one-off pensioner payment, no application is required. Payments will appear in eligible recipients’ bank accounts between May and July 2025. Ensure your MyGov account is up to date.
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FAQs on Centrelink Increase Confirmed for May 2025
Do I need to apply for the $780 Centrelink payment?
No. It is applied automatically to eligible pensioners.
How often do Centrelink payments increase?
Twice a year—March 20 and September 20—based on inflation and wage trends.
Can I receive multiple increases if I’m eligible for different programs?
Yes. If you’re eligible for JobSeeker and Rent Assistance, you’ll receive both updates.
What should I do if I think I was missed?
Log into MyGov, check your Centrelink messages, or contact Services Australia directly.
