Millions of Australians receiving Centrelink payments are set to receive a bonus payout in March 2025, providing extra financial relief to help keep up with rising costs. Whether you receive the Age Pension, JobSeeker, Disability Support Pension, Carer Payment, or Family Tax Benefits, you may see a small but helpful increase in your regular payments.
The March 2025 Centrelink Bonus Payout is an automatic increase, meaning eligible recipients do not need to apply—the additional funds will be included in your regular Centrelink deposit starting March 20, 2025.
This guide will break down who qualifies, how much you will receive, and how to check your updated payment.
Overview
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Payment Increase Date | March 20, 2025 |
| Who Qualifies? | Age Pensioners, JobSeeker recipients, Disability Support Pensioners, Carers, and Family Tax Benefit recipients |
| Bonus Payment Amounts | Age Pension: Up to $7 extra per fortnight; JobSeeker: $3.10 per fortnight; Carer Payment: Increased work allowance |
| How to Claim | Automatically applied—no need to apply manually |
| Official Source | Services Australia |
Centrelink Bonus Payout
The March 2025 Centrelink Bonus Payout is part of biannual indexation adjustments that ensure welfare payments increase in line with inflation. These updates help Australians maintain their purchasing power as the cost of living rises.
The government bases these increases on:
- Consumer Price Index (CPI) – Measures changes in living costs.
- Pensioner and Beneficiary Living Cost Index (PBLCI) – Assesses the cost of living for those on government payments.
These adjustments happen every March and September, meaning this March 2025 update is a routine increase aimed at easing financial pressure on vulnerable Australians.
Who Is Eligible?
To receive the March 2025 Centrelink Bonus Payment, you must already be receiving at least one of the following payments:
- Age Pension
- JobSeeker Payment
- Disability Support Pension
- Carer Payment
- Family Tax Benefits (FTB A & B)
- Youth Allowance
- ABSTUDY or Austudy
- Single Parenting Payment
- Widow Allowance
- Special Benefit
If you qualify, your payments will increase automatically—there is no need to apply.
Increase Amount
The increase amount depends on which Centrelink benefit you receive. Here’s a breakdown:
Age Pension
| Recipient | New Increase (Per Fortnight) |
|---|---|
| Single Pensioner | $4.60 extra |
| Couples (Combined) | $7 extra ($866.10 each) |
| Pension Supplements | Small increase to cover essential costs |
JobSeeker Payment
| Recipient | New Increase (Per Fortnight) |
|---|---|
| Single Recipients | $3.10 extra |
| Couples (Each) | $2.80 extra |
| Over 55 (9+ months on JobSeeker) | May receive additional increases |
Disability Support Pension
- Under 21 (no children) – Payment changes based on personal circumstances.
- Over 21 – Increases similar to the Age Pension.
Carer Payment
- Carers can now work up to 100 hours over four weeks without losing eligibility.
- This change helps carers stay in the workforce while providing essential care.
Family Tax Benefit (FTB A & B)
| Benefit Type | New Increase (Per Child, Per Fortnight) |
|---|---|
| FTB Part A | $2.20 extra |
| FTB Part B | $1.80 extra |
These small but meaningful increases will help Australians manage essential expenses like rent, groceries, and healthcare costs.
How to Claim
The best part? You do not need to do anything to receive this payment increase.
Steps
- Check your Centrelink account on myGov to confirm your updated payment.
- Update your banking details if necessary.
- Ensure your income reports are up to date (especially for JobSeeker and means-tested payments).
- Watch for Centrelink notifications regarding your payment increase.
- Report any discrepancies immediately by contacting Centrelink.
Starting March 20, 2025, the extra funds will be included in your regular Centrelink deposit without any additional action required.
FAQs
Who qualifies for the Centrelink Bonus Payout?
Anyone receiving Age Pension, JobSeeker, Disability Support, Carer Payment, or Family Tax Benefits.
When will the Centrelink bonus be paid?
The bonus payment will be included in regular deposits starting March 20, 2025.
Do I need to apply for the Centrelink Bonus Payment?
No, the increase is automatic for eligible recipients.
How much extra will I receive from Centrelink?
It depends on your benefit, but Age Pensioners get up to $7 extra per fortnight.
Will there be another Centrelink increase in 2025?
Yes, another indexation increase is expected in September 2025.
