In 2025, one-off payments of $250 and $1,300 will be given by Centrelink to eligible Australians as part of the federal government’s ongoing cost-of-living support initiatives.
The payments are designed to assist vulnerable groups faced with rising expenses such as housing, utilities, and everyday essentials. The government has confirmed the amounts of the payments and their respective timeframes, while the exact times of the payments remain contingent on which Centrelink support categories the person is in.
Who Receives the $250?
The \$250 payment is being given to those on various government benefits including JobSeeker, Youth Allowance, DSP, Parenting Payment, and Age Pension. This is a broad-based relief measure intended to ease inflationary pressures on the low-income earners in Australia.
To qualify, recipients must be in receipt of an eligible Centrelink payment or concession card at the qualifying date announced closer to the distribution period. No application needs to be made; Centrelink will automatically deposit $250 into the eligible recipient’s bank account.
Who Qualifies for the $1,300 Centrelink Payment?
The big $1,300 goes to smaller, more specific groups, particularly beside carers and people long-term on disability support. It will give extra assistance to people who have ongoing care responsibilities or serious health conditions that impair their ability to earn a regular income.
Payees must satisfy stringent criteria, including that they have been on Carer Payment, Carer Allowance, or Disability Support Pension for at least a minimum continuous period prior to the payment date.
Further evaluation of income and assets may be required, depending on the recipient’s individual circumstances. Like the $250 payment, the $1,300 support will also be paid automatically with no need for application.
When Are the Payments Scheduled to Be Delivered?
They are scheduled for delivery in mid to late 2025, though the exact dates will be posted in the Services Australia website. Those Australians eligible to receive either payment should ensure that their Centrelink details are kept up to date with no delays. Given the times when so many households are financially pressed, these payments provide a measure of relief and direct help to those most in need.