Millions of Centrelink recipients are set to receive a payment increase as part of the government’s bi-annual indexation process, which ensures social security payments keep pace with inflation.
These adjustments take effect every March and September, providing much-needed financial relief to pensioners, job seekers, and other welfare recipients.
According to Social Services Minister Amanda Rishworth, this payment boost is crucial in helping Australians manage the rising cost of living.
She emphasized that indexation plays a key role in maintaining the financial well-being of individuals and families relying on social security.
How Much Will Centrelink Payments Increase in March 2025?
Several Centrelink payments will see an increase starting March 20, 2025. Below is a breakdown of the payment adjustments for different groups:
Updated Centrelink Payment Rates
| Payment Type | Increase Per Fortnight | New Fortnightly Payment |
|---|---|---|
| JobSeeker (Single) | $3.10 | $781.10 |
| JobSeeker (Couples, each) | $2.80 | $715.10 |
| Age Pension (Single) | $4.60 | $1,149.00 |
| Age Pension (Couples, each) | $3.50 | $866.10 |
| Disability Support Pension | $4.60 | Varies by eligibility |
| Carer Payment | $4.60 | Varies by eligibility |
| ABSTUDY | $2.80 – $3.30 | Varies by eligibility |
| Parenting Payment | $2.80 – $4.30 | Varies by eligibility |
| Rent Assistance | $0.50 – $1.12 | Varies by eligibility |
Key Changes to Centrelink in March 2025
1. JobSeeker Compliance Updates
Fewer JobSeeker recipients will face payment suspensions under new compliance rules. Changes include:
- New applicants to Workforce Australia or Disability Employment Services will not be penalized for their first missed requirement.
- Job seekers working 30 hours per fortnight for two months will be exempt from payment suspensions if they miss an appointment.
- Centrelink staff will review cases before applying financial penalties rather than suspending payments automatically.
2. Carer Payment Work Rule Adjustments
From March 20, 2025, carers can work more flexible hours without affecting their payments:
- Carers will be allowed to work 100 hours over a four-week period (previously 25 hours per week).
- Hours must still be reported fortnightly, but study, training, volunteering, and travel time will not count toward the limit.
- If work exceeds 100 hours, carers may use respite days to remain eligible.
The March 2025 Centrelink cash boost is a vital financial adjustment aimed at helping Australians cope with inflation.
With increases across multiple welfare payments, as well as policy changes to compliance and carer work hours, these updates will provide greater financial stability to millions of Australians.
Recipients should stay informed, ensure their details are updated, and monitor their payments through myGov to avoid any issues.
FAQs
When will the Centrelink payment increases take effect?
The new payment rates will take effect from March 20, 2025, and will be reflected in recipients’ fortnightly payments.
Will I need to apply for the increased payments?
No, the increases are automatic for eligible recipients enrolled in Centrelink programs.
What should I do if my payment is delayed?
Check your myGov account or contact Services Australia to verify your eligibility and payment status.
4 thoughts on “Centrelink Cash Boost March 2025 – Payment Increases & Policy Changes”
It’s a joke?housing takes 25%Tom
Hello how can i apply for the Hardship boost plz because i got back in the country over 1month a go and i brought my wife with me and just last thursday i got 251.dollars and i have $350.00 off rent to and have to eat drink and lots more for a single income so could you plz help is it only $1000.00 dollars or can i get more plz because ive borrowed the bed and fridge and a lot me plz help me
I truly thank the government for thinking that $4.30 not even the cost of a loaf of bread per Fortnight is enough to say huge boost to pensioners and smile about what they have done…
How disgusting.
We are fortunate to have the aged pension yes But $602 per week to live on???
Wake up any government who thinks that is not poverty. Respect your elders and bring back the Covid allowance permanently for aged pension people. No one thinks of them not one Australian party. Thanks for the $4.30 per Fortnight we’ll buy a loaf of bread a month that should do it..
Absolutly joke you can even get loaf of bread or 1litre milk for the huge increase