Living in remote areas of Australia comes with unique challenges, including higher living costs and limited access to essential services. To help offset these difficulties, Centrelink provides the Remote Area Allowance (RAA), a financial support program for eligible individuals in remote regions.
Whether you’re a long-term resident or considering a move to the outback, this guide will explain eligibility requirements, payment rates, and how to apply for the Remote Area Allowance in 2025.
Overview
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Allowance Name | Remote Area Allowance (RAA) |
| Payment Rates | Single: $18.20/fortnight, Couple (each): $15.60/fortnight, Per Child: $7.30/fortnight |
| Eligibility Criteria | Reside in a remote area, receive eligible Centrelink payments, intend to stay in the area for 12+ months |
| Official Resource | Services Australia |
The Remote Area Allowance is designed to provide additional financial relief to individuals living in geographically isolated areas. Understanding eligibility and payment structures can help you maximize this benefit while exploring additional financial supports like tax offsets and community programs.
Remote Area Allowance
The Remote Area Allowance (RAA) is a Centrelink supplement that provides financial support to individuals living in designated remote areas of Australia. The program recognizes the higher cost of living and limited services in these areas and is designed to offset some of these financial burdens.
RAA is not a standalone payment—it is an additional supplement provided to those receiving eligible Centrelink income support payments.
Who Can Qualify?
To qualify for the Remote Area Allowance, you must meet the following conditions:
Live in a Remote Area
Remote areas are defined by the Australian Taxation Office (ATO) based on tax zone classifications. These include:
- Zone A
- Special Zone A
- Special Zone B
If you’re unsure whether your location qualifies, visit Services Australia to check the eligibility map of remote zones.
Receive an Eligible Centrelink Payment
RAA is only available to individuals already receiving certain income support payments, such as:
- Age Pension
- Disability Support Pension
- JobSeeker Payment
- ABSTUDY Living Allowance
Special provisions may also apply to students who temporarily relocate from a remote area for education, allowing them to continue receiving the RAA for up to eight weeks.
Long-Term Residency Requirement
If you recently moved to a remote area, you must intend to live there for at least 12 months to qualify for RAA. Temporary or short-term stays do not meet eligibility requirements.
How Much Can You Receive?
The RAA payment rate depends on your household composition:
| Household Type | RAA Amount (Per Fortnight) |
|---|---|
| Single Individual | $18.20 |
| Each Partner in a Couple | $15.60 |
| Per Dependent Child | $7.30 |
These payments are added to your existing Centrelink benefits and deposited automatically into your bank account.
Example Calculation
Sarah, a single mother with two children, lives in Zone A and receives JobSeeker Payment. Her RAA would be calculated as follows:
- Sarah’s RAA: $18.20
- Two children: $7.30 x 2 = $14.60
- Total Fortnightly RAA: $32.80
How to Apply
Applying for the RAA is simple and automatic. Centrelink will assess your eligibility when you either apply for an income support payment or update your address to a remote area.
Steps
- Confirm Eligibility – Ensure your address falls within a designated remote area and you receive an eligible Centrelink payment.
- Report Address Changes – If you move to a remote area, update your address with Centrelink as soon as possible.
- Automatic Assessment – Centrelink will review your eligibility based on your address and payment status.
- Receive Payments – If approved, the RAA will be automatically added to your regular Centrelink payments.
If you believe you qualify but have not received the allowance, contact Centrelink to request a review of your situation.
Additional Benefits
Living in a remote area comes with other financial benefits, beyond the RAA.
Tax Offsets
Residents in remote zones may qualify for the Zone Tax Offset, which provides additional financial relief when filing tax returns. To learn more, check the ATO’s guide on Zone Tax Offsets.
Community Support Programs
Some remote regions offer local subsidies and grants, including:
- Education support for children in remote areas
- Utility subsidies to offset higher electricity and water costs
- Transport assistance programs to help with travel expenses
Unique Lifestyle Benefits
While remote living has financial challenges, it also offers:
- Access to stunning natural landscapes
- Strong community connections
- Opportunities to engage with Indigenous cultures and local traditions
Tips for Maximizing Benefits
Remote areas often have higher costs for groceries, fuel, and utilities. Budgeting wisely and utilizing local resources can help manage expenses.
Use Local Support Services
Look into community programs and government initiatives that can further ease financial pressures. Some areas offer additional subsidies for housing, health care, or education.
Stay Updated on Benefit Changes
Government assistance programs, including RAA, may change. Regularly check Services Australia to stay informed about updates or new eligibility rules.
The Remote Area Allowance is an important financial support for Australians facing higher costs of living in isolated regions. By knowing your eligibility, ensuring you receive the correct payment, and taking advantage of additional benefits, you can better manage life in a remote community.
FAQs
Who is eligible for the Remote Area Allowance?
Anyone living in a designated remote area and receiving an eligible Centrelink payment.
How much is the Remote Area Allowance?
Singles receive $18.20 per fortnight, couples get $15.60 each, and children get $7.30.
Do I need to apply for the Remote Area Allowance?
No, it is automatically assessed when you receive an eligible Centrelink payment.
Can I receive the allowance if I move to a remote area temporarily?
No, you must intend to live in the remote area for at least 12 months.
What other benefits are available for remote residents?
Remote residents may qualify for tax offsets, community subsidies, and transport assistance.
