With the rising cost of essential goods and services, the Australian government is stepping in to provide much-needed financial relief. In March 2025, Centrelink will issue a one-time $1,144 Cost of Living Boost to help eligible Australians manage their expenses.
Table of Contents
This automatic payment will be deposited directly into the bank accounts of pensioners, carers, job seekers, students, and low-income Australians who qualify. If you receive payments from Centrelink, this guide will help you understand who is eligible, when you can expect to receive the payment, and how to check your status.
What Is the $1,144 Centrelink Cost of Living Boost?
The $1,144 Cost of Living Boost is a one-time financial support payment introduced by the Australian government to assist vulnerable citizens in dealing with inflation and rising living expenses.
With costs increasing in areas such as rent, utilities, groceries, and fuel, this payment aims to ease financial pressure on those who need it the most.
This one-off payment will be automatically distributed to eligible Centrelink recipients in March 2025.
Aged Disability Pension Boost 2025: Major Changes & What You Need to Know
$1,200 Centrelink Payment Deposited in Accounts: Payout Dates, Eligibility & How to Apply
Who Is Eligible for the $1,144 Cost of Living Boost?
To qualify for the $1,144 Centrelink boost, you must be receiving specific Centrelink benefits as of February 15, 2025.
Here’s a breakdown of the eligible groups:
1. Age Pensioners
✔ Must be receiving Age Pension payments.
✔ Must meet residency, income, and asset requirements.
2. Disability Support Pension (DSP) Recipients
✔ Must be receiving Disability Support Pension (DSP).
✔ Must meet medical and financial eligibility.
3. Carer Payment & Carer Allowance Recipients
✔ Must be receiving Carer Payment or Carer Allowance.
✔ Must provide ongoing care for someone with a disability or medical condition.
4. JobSeeker Payment Recipients
✔ Must be receiving JobSeeker Payment.
✔ Must comply with mutual obligation and job search requirements.
5. Parenting Payment Recipients
✔ Must be receiving Parenting Payment (Single or Partnered).
✔ Must have at least one dependent child.
6. Commonwealth Seniors Health Card Holders
✔ Seniors who do not qualify for the Age Pension but hold a Commonwealth Seniors Health Card.
7. Students Receiving Centrelink Benefits
✔ Must be receiving Youth Allowance for Students, Austudy, or ABSTUDY.
✔ Must be enrolled in an approved full-time or part-time course.
8. Other Low-Income Australians
✔ Individuals on low or fixed incomes may also qualify.
✔ Eligibility will be assessed based on income thresholds.
When Will the $1,144 Cost of Living Boost Be Paid?
The $1,144 payment will be distributed automatically starting from March 2025.
Expected Payment Schedule
📅 March 2025: Payments begin for most eligible recipients.
📅 April 2025: Remaining payments for those on different Centrelink cycles.
The exact date of your payment will depend on your usual Centrelink payment schedule.
How Will the Payment Be Issued?
✔ Direct Deposit – Automatically credited to the bank account linked to your Centrelink payments.
✔ No Application Needed – If you are eligible, the payment will be processed without needing to apply.
✔ Check Your Payment Status – Use MyGov or contact Services Australia to verify payment details.
| Payment Method | Details |
|---|---|
| Direct Deposit | Sent directly to your registered bank account. |
| Cheque (if applicable) | Some recipients may receive a cheque by mail. |
| No Application Required | Payments are made automatically to eligible individuals. |
How to Check Your Eligibility and Payment Status
If you want to confirm your eligibility or check the status of your payment, you can do so through these methods:
1. Online via MyGov
- Log in to your MyGov account.
- Link it to Centrelink if you haven’t already.
- Check your payment status under the “Payment History” section.
2. Call Centrelink for Assistance
- 📞 Phone: 132 300 (Centrelink Customer Service).
- Speak to a Services Australia representative about your payment.
3. Visit a Centrelink Office
- Find your nearest Centrelink service centre for in-person assistance.
Additional Financial Support Measures in 2025
In addition to the $1,144 Cost of Living Boost, the Australian government has introduced other support programs to assist citizens with rising expenses:
1. Age Pension, JobSeeker, and Rent Assistance Increases
✔ Age Pension: Increased by $19 per fortnight.
✔ JobSeeker Payment: Increased by $27 per fortnight.
✔ Commonwealth Rent Assistance: Increased by up to $37 per fortnight.
2. Energy Bill Assistance
✔ Eligible households may receive electricity and gas subsidies.
✔ State governments are offering extra rebates on power bills.
3. Grocery and Fuel Relief Programs
✔ Discounts on essential groceries through supermarket partnerships.
✔ Temporary fuel tax cuts to reduce petrol and diesel costs.
Important Reminders for Payment Recipients
✔ Automatic Payment: No need to apply—payments will be processed automatically.
✔ Update Your Information: Ensure your bank and contact details are correct in MyGov to avoid delays.
✔ Beware of Scams: Watch out for fake websites and scam calls pretending to offer Centrelink payments. Always verify information on the official Centrelink website.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Do I need to apply for the $1,144 Centrelink Cost of Living Boost?
No, the payment will be automatically deposited into eligible recipients’ bank accounts.
2. When will I receive the payment?
Payments will be processed from March 2025, based on your Centrelink payment schedule.
3. How can I check if I qualify?
Log in to MyGov or call Centrelink (132 300) to confirm eligibility.
4. Will this payment affect my other benefits?
No, the $1,144 Cost of Living Boost is a one-time, tax-free payment and will not impact your regular Centrelink benefits.
5. What happens if I don’t receive the payment?
- Check your MyGov account for updates.
- Ensure your bank details are up to date.
- Call Centrelink (132 300) for assistance.
Final Thoughts – A Financial Lifeline for Australians in 2025
The $1,144 Centrelink Cost of Living Boost will provide much-needed relief for pensioners, carers, students, and low-income Australians struggling with rising costs.
Since the payment is automatic, make sure your Centrelink details are current and stay alert for scams. If you’re unsure about your eligibility, check MyGov or contact Centrelink directly.