With rising inflation and financial stress impacting households across Australia, Centrelink has officially announced two major support payments—a $250 Cost of Living Payment and a $750 Double Payment—coming in May 2025.
These one-time payments are designed to offer quick financial relief to millions of eligible Australians who receive various Centrelink benefits.
This article covers everything you need to know, from eligibility requirements to payment dates, how to check your eligibility, and how to prepare to receive your funds.
What Are the $250 and $750 Centrelink Payments?
These one-off payments are part of a government initiative to ease financial pressure on low-income and vulnerable individuals.
- $250 Cost of Living Payment – Designed to help Australians cope with everyday expenses like groceries and energy bills.
- $750 Double Payment – Targeted at recipients of certain Centrelink benefits, representing an added financial buffer during a tough economic period.
Eligibility Criteria: Who Will Receive These Payments?
To receive these payments, you must meet all the following conditions:
- Be residing in Australia during the payment window
- Receive at least one eligible Centrelink payment between May 1 and May 30, 2025
- Have an active Centrelink account with updated bank details
- Not be disqualified by holding only a Commonwealth Seniors Health Card (CSHC) without a linked payment
Eligible Centrelink Payments Include:
- Age Pension
- Disability Support Pension
- Carer Payment & Carer Allowance
- JobSeeker Payment
- Youth Allowance (students and job seekers)
- Parenting Payment (single or partnered)
- Austudy/ABSTUDY Living Allowance
- Veteran Service Pension or War Widow(er)’s Pension
- Farm Household Allowance
Payment Schedule and Dates
Centrelink has confirmed that payments will be automatically deposited into the recipient’s bank accounts. The payment distribution will occur between May 28 and May 30, 2025, but dates vary based on the payment type.
| Payment Type | Amount | Payment Date |
|---|---|---|
| Age Pension | $250 + $750 | May 28, 2025 |
| Disability Support Pension | $250 + $750 | May 29, 2025 |
| Carer Payment & Allowance | $250 + $750 | May 28, 2025 |
| JobSeeker Payment | $250 + $750 | May 29, 2025 |
| Youth Allowance | $250 + $750 | May 30, 2025 |
If you’re eligible, no action is required apart from ensuring your bank details are up to date in myGov.
Why This Support Matters
Australia has been grappling with cost-of-living pressures due to inflation. Prices for essential goods such as food, rent, fuel, and utilities have surged.
These payments are expected to provide immediate financial relief and help vulnerable individuals meet critical expenses without resorting to debt or hardship.
How to Prepare for Payment
- Log in to your myGov account linked to Centrelink.
- Update your banking details to avoid any payment delays.
- Review your Centrelink payment history to verify you’re on an eligible benefit.
- Monitor your account starting May 28 for the deposit.
- If unpaid by June, contact Centrelink via your myGov inbox or phone.
Tips for Managing the Payment Wisely
- Prioritize rent, food, and bills first to avoid late fees.
- Create a mini-budget to track spending during the month.
- Save a portion of the payment if your current needs are covered.
- Look for community assistance or discounts to stretch your funds further.
Centrelink’s $250 and $750 double payments in May 2025 offer timely financial assistance to eligible Australians coping with inflation and economic stress.
Ensure your account details are current, check your eligibility, and prepare for the funds. These payments can help you stay financially secure during challenging times.
FAQs
Will I receive both the $250 and $750 payments?
Yes, if you’re receiving an eligible Centrelink payment and meet all criteria, you’ll receive both payments automatically.
What happens if my bank details are outdated?
Incorrect bank details may delay your payment. Always ensure your details in myGov > Centrelink are current.
Can I apply for the payments manually?
No application is needed. Payments are automatically processed if you’re eligible and your Centrelink account is in good standing.