Millions of Australians receiving Centrelink benefits are seeing increased payments starting May 2025. The federal government has raised several welfare payments to help Australians cope with the rising cost of living.
These updated payment rates took effect from 1 May 2025 and will remain in place until the next scheduled indexation in September 2025.
New Centrelink Fortnightly Payment Rates
Here are the latest increased Centrelink payments:
- Age Pension (Single): $1,149
- Age Pension (Couple, each): $866.10
- JobSeeker (Single): $781.10
- JobSeeker (With Children): $836.50
- Parenting Payment (Single): $1,011.50 + $29 Pension Supplement
- Disability Support Pension (Single): $1,149
- Family Tax Benefit Part A (0–12 years): $222.04
- Family Tax Benefit Part A (13–19 years): $288.82
- Youth Allowance (18+, living away from home): $639
These adjustments are part of Services Australia’s plan to keep welfare payments in line with inflation.
Paid Parental Leave Extended from July 2025
From 1 July 2025, the Paid Parental Leave scheme will be extended to 24 weeks. This increase offers better financial stability to families welcoming a new child.
In a significant change, superannuation contributions will now be included during the leave period. Helping parents build long-term retirement savings even while on leave.
Eligibility Criteria and Thresholds Updated
To qualify for Centrelink payments, recipients must meet updated income and asset thresholds.
- Must continue job-seeking and meet updated income and asset limits.
- Available to Australians aged 67+, subject to revised financial tests.
- Parenting Payment (Single): For children under 14.
- Parenting Payment (Partnered): For children under 8.
- Requires at least 330 work hours in the 13 months before birth, with income under the threshold.
Useful Tools for Centrelink Payment Management
Services Australia advises all recipients to:
- Report income accurately to avoid overpayments
- Use direct deposit for faster access to funds
- Access the Payment and Service Finder Tool on the Services Australia website to check current entitlements
These tools ensure recipients stay updated and avoid payment delays.
Government Responds to Cost-of-Living Pressures
These Centrelink changes reflect the federal government’s response to increasing financial stress across households. The government aims to offer targeted support and sustainable relief through these measures.
Services Australia will continue monitoring economic conditions and adjust payment rates and eligibility criteria accordingly.
More Changes Coming in September 2025
The next indexation update is due in September 2025. Australians should regularly:
- Check their myGov accounts
- Visit the Services Australia website for real-time updates
Even minor changes in payment rates or thresholds may affect eligibility.
The May 2025 Centrelink updates bring much-needed relief to millions of Australians. Higher payments, extended parental leave, and revised income limits offer stronger financial security during tough times.
As the cost of living continues to rise, these changes will help Centrelink recipients better manage day-to-day expenses. Services Australia remains committed to adjusting payments fairly and transparently.
