Relief Payment Announced: As the cost of living continues to strain household budgets across Australia, the Australian Government has announced a one-time $497 Centrelink Cost of Living Relief Payment to ease financial pressure for millions of Australians. This targeted support measure aims to help eligible Centrelink recipients, especially those on fixed incomes or government support, better manage rising living expenses.
If you rely on government benefits or know someone who does, now is the time to check your eligibility and ensure your information is up to date — because this payment will be processed automatically for those who qualify.
Relief Payment Announced
| Point | Details |
|---|---|
| Payment Amount | One-time $497 relief payment |
| Disbursement Period | April 15 to April 30, 2025 |
| Eligible Groups | Centrelink recipients such as Age Pensioners, Carers, JobSeekers, Youth Allowance, etc. |
| Application Process | No application required – payment will be made automatically |
| Deadline to Update Details | April 10, 2025 (via myGov) |
| Taxable? | No – this payment is non-taxable and won’t affect other benefits |
| Official Info | Services Australia – Centrelink Updates |
Why the $497 Payment Was Introduced
With inflation pushing up prices of essentials like groceries, fuel, and rent, low-income households are feeling the pinch the most. The government has recognized the growing hardship, particularly among pensioners, carers, job seekers, and students, and has responded with this targeted relief payment.
Treasurer Jim Chalmers emphasized that this payment is part of a broader economic relief package intended to “support those doing it toughest.”
Who Is Eligible for the $497 Cost of Living Payment?
Not every Australian will receive this benefit. To qualify for the one-off $497 relief payment, you must meet the following conditions:
Residency Requirements
You must be residing in Australia as of March 31, 2025.
Receive an Eligible Centrelink Payment
You must currently be receiving one of the following Centrelink or Veterans Affairs payments:
- Age Pension
- Disability Support Pension
- Carer Payment
- JobSeeker Payment
- Parenting Payment
- Youth Allowance
- Austudy
- Abstudy
- Veterans’ Affairs payments
- Pensioner Concession Card holders
Note: Even if you’re receiving payments under more than one category, you’ll only receive one $497 payment.
Up-to-date Personal Details
Your bank details, address, and contact information must be current in your myGov or Centrelink account. Failing to update this before April 10, 2025, may result in delayed or failed payment.
Relief Payment Announced: How and When Will You Receive the Payment?
Payment Amount
A single payment of $497 will be issued to each eligible individual.
Disbursement Timeline
The payment will be automatically transferred to eligible recipients between:
April 15 and April 30, 2025
It will follow your regular Centrelink payment schedule.
Method of Payment
Funds will be deposited directly into your bank account, so there’s no need to apply or fill out any forms. Just make sure your bank account linked to Centrelink is correct.
Is the $497 Payment Taxable?
No. The $497 Cost of Living Relief Payment is completely tax-free.
- It won’t count as income for tax purposes.
- It won’t affect your existing benefits or thresholds.
- It is treated as a one-time assistance payment and is exempt from income tests.
What Other Support Is Being Offered?
This $497 payment is part of a larger cost of living package, and eligible Australians may also benefit from other initiatives, including:
Commonwealth Rent Assistance Increase
If you’re renting and already receiving support, you may see an increase in your rent assistance payment in the upcoming quarter.
Energy Bill Rebates
State and federal governments have partnered to provide rebates on power bills – particularly for low-income households.
Education Support Bonuses
Families with school-aged children may receive additional education support payments in 2025, such as back-to-school subsidies.
Income-Free Threshold Adjustments
Certain benefits will now allow recipients to earn more money without losing eligibility. This means part-time workers can supplement their income more easily.
What You Need to Do Now – Step-by-Step Guide
Step 1: Check Your Eligibility
Ensure you’re receiving a payment listed under the eligible categories.
Step 2: Update Your Details
Log in to your MyGov account and:
- Verify your bank account number
- Check your contact information
- Update your residential address if needed
Deadline: April 10, 2025
Step 3: Wait for Your Payment
You don’t need to apply. Just keep an eye on your bank account between April 15 and April 30, 2025.
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FAQs on Relief Payment Announced
Q1. Do I need to apply to get the $497 Centrelink payment?
No. It will be automatically deposited into the accounts of those who are eligible.
Q2. I receive both Youth Allowance and a Veterans payment – will I get two payments?
No. You will receive only one payment even if you’re eligible under multiple categories.
Q3. What if I updated my bank details after April 10?
There may be a delay in receiving your payment. It’s best to act before the deadline.
Q4. Is the payment available for new applicants?
Only those already receiving eligible payments as of March 31, 2025, qualify.
Q5. Will this payment reduce or affect my other benefits?
No. The $497 is non-taxable and non-assessable — it won’t interfere with your current benefit entitlements.
