In response to increases in living expenses, the Australian government has approved a new $1,100 payment for Centrelink recipients who qualify. This one-off support payment forms part of a wider cost-of-living relief package targeting low-income households, carers, and families struggling economically because of inflation and housing costs.
Who is Entitled to an $1,100 Payment?
The payment will be given to particular Centrelink recipients like Parenting Payment, Youth Allowance, JobSeeker, Carer Payment. To determine eligibility, one of these payments must have been received in the qualification period specified in the recent announcements by the government. An application form will not be issued and those eligible will be paid automatically, as long as Centrelink records are up-to-date.
When Will Payments Arrive? How Will They Be Sent?
The payment will be paid in one single lump sum directly into bank accounts attached to Centrelink within the coming weeks. The payment dates might differ slightly depending on your primary benefit type, but most recipients should expect the money to be there before the end of the next quarter. Centrelink has also encouraged its beneficiaries to check their MyGov accounts regularly for any notifications.
Other Payment Impacts
This one-off payment will not affect your usual Centrelink entitlements. It will be disregarded for income testing for any other payments and will not affect your rent assistance, taxes, or any other ongoing liabilities. It would just be a short-term injection of cash without disrupting any broader social security support.
Towards Broader Cost-of-Living Relief
Officials had indicated that this $1,100 payment formed part of a broader package of economic assistance, with energy rebates, rental subsidies, and perhaps another uplift to base payment rates in their sights in the next budget. The government continues to examine the economic outlook to assess whether further one-off payments or permanent rate changes will be required.