Millions of Australians receiving Centrelink payments will get a welcome boost this weekend, with increased rates rolling out automatically from this Saturday.
Services Australia has confirmed that Age Pension, Carer Payment, and Disability Support Pension rates will rise, with singles to receive an extra $29.70 per fortnight and couples getting an additional $44.80 combined.
The increases are part of the government’s regular indexation process, which adjusts payments in line with changes to the cost of living, wages, and inflation.
Social Services Minister Tanya Plibersek said the changes are aimed at easing financial pressure for those who rely on support.
“Thanks to indexation, millions of Aussies will receive a boost to their payment to help them cover everyday costs like groceries and healthcare,” she said.
“Social security recipients are also benefitting from tax cuts, cheaper medicines, energy bill relief, cuts to student debt and a whole range of other cost of living measures we’ve delivered since coming into Government.
“The social security system must be grounded in fairness, which is why we adjust supports as the economy changes.
“We’ll continue to make sure the system is there to support those who need it most, ensuring that everyone can make ends meet and no one gets left behind.”
Other payments will also see increases. Youth Allowance will rise by $27.00 for single recipients, while the new fortnightly limit increases to $1,910.84.
JobSeeker payments will go up to $793.60 per fortnight for singles aged 22 and over with no children – a $12.50 increase. The partnered rate will increase by $11.40 to $726.50 each.
ABSTUDY payments for eligible Indigenous Australians aged 22 and over will also increase by $12.50 to $793.60.
Single parents receiving Parenting Payment will now get $1,039.70 per fortnight, up $16.20. Partnered parents will receive $734.30, a $11.40 increase.
Rent Assistance payments will see smaller increases – up by $3.40 for singles, bringing the new amount to $215.40 per fortnight. Couples will now receive $203.00 combined, up from $199.80.
Centrelink recipients can check their updated payment details via their online account or the Express Plus Centrelink app.
The full list of rate changes is available on the Department of Social Services Australia website.
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