Posted by From June 20, 2025, the Australian Government has rolled out significant increases in Centrelink payments, offering much-needed relief to Age Pensioners and JobSeeker recipients.
These increases reflect updated cost-of-living benchmarks, particularly the Consumer Price Index (CPI) and the Pensioner and Beneficiary Living Cost Index (PBLCI), ensuring payment rates stay in line with economic reality.
Let’s break down the new payment rates, who qualifies, and how you can make the most of these enhancements.
What’s Changing for Age Pension Recipients?
Starting June 2025, Age Pensioners will receive increased fortnightly payments, providing better support for everyday expenses such as rent, groceries, and medical needs.
Pension Payment Update – June 2025
| Payment Type | Previous Rate (March 2025) | New Rate (June 2025) |
|---|---|---|
| Single Pension | $1,096.70 | $1,130.90 |
| Couple (Combined) | $1,653.40 | $1,705.00 |
Additional Benefits for Pensioners:
- Utility, energy, and transport concessions continue.
- Eligibility for Pharmaceutical Allowance and Rent Assistance.
- Increased Pension Supplement payments.
The base pension rate rise of $34.20 for singles and $51.60 for couples aims to buffer against inflation and higher living costs.
JobSeeker Payment Boost – What’s New in 2025
Australians relying on JobSeeker payments will also see higher fortnightly support. This update particularly benefits older unemployed individuals and those with dependents.
Updated JobSeeker Rates – June 2025
| Category | Previous Rate | New Rate |
|---|---|---|
| Single (No children) | $762.20 | $790.50 |
| Single (With children) | $816.90 | Increased proportionally |
| Over 55 and long-term unemployed | Higher tier | Additional increase |
Key Enhancements:
- Income-Free Threshold raised from $150 to $190 per fortnight
– Encouraging part-time work without reducing core payments. - Payment adjustments based on age and dependent status for fairer income support.
Why the 2025 Centrelink Increase Matters
These increases address the urgent needs of those struggling under rising rent prices, inflation (at 4.1%), and basic living costs. The goal is to enhance economic security for pensioners and the unemployed.
Social support groups and advocates have welcomed the move as a positive step, although many continue to call for comprehensive welfare reform to ensure long-term income stability.
How to Maximise Your Centrelink Benefits in 2025
- Update Your Income and Asset Details:
Use myGov to ensure your details are current. This guarantees accurate assessments and access to full entitlements. - Check for Supplementary Payments:
You may qualify for additional support such as:- Rent Assistance
- Pharmaceutical Allowance
- Pension Supplement
- Track Payment Dates and Adjustments:
Stay informed about payment cycles and bonus disbursements (e.g., one-off energy relief payments).
The Centrelink Payment Increase 2025 offers crucial financial support to both Pensioners and JobSeeker recipients, easing the impact of rising living costs across Australia.
By understanding the changes, updating your information, and exploring supplementary benefits, you can make the most of what the system now offers.
These updates reflect a proactive step toward economic resilience and welfare equity for all Australians.
FAQs
When do the new Centrelink rates take effect?
The updated payment rates began on June 20, 2025, and will reflect in the next scheduled disbursement.
Who qualifies for the pension payment increase?
All eligible Age Pension recipients, including singles and couples, automatically receive the new rates. Ensure your financial records are up to date.
How does the income-free area affect JobSeeker payments?
You can now earn up to $190 per fortnight from work without reducing your JobSeeker benefit, making part-time employment more attractive.