As part of the Australian Government’s efforts to support vulnerable households amid rising living costs, a $400 Centrelink bonus is being distributed in April 2025 to eligible recipients. This one-off cost of living payment is designed to help Australians manage increasing expenses, including groceries, fuel, and rent.
If you’re wondering whether you’re eligible and when to expect the payout, this article breaks down all the essential details — including eligibility, payment dates, and how it works.
What Is the $400 Centrelink Bonus?
The $400 Centrelink payment is a non-taxable lump sum provided to individuals already receiving specific government benefits or concessions. It forms part of a broader cost-of-living relief package introduced in early 2025.
This bonus is designed to ease financial pressure during a period of ongoing economic challenges, inflation, and housing-related stress.
Who Is Eligible for the $400 Bonus?
To receive the $400 Centrelink bonus in April 2025, recipients must meet specific eligibility criteria as of March 31, 2025. The payment will be automatically deposited into bank accounts linked to Centrelink.
You may be eligible if you receive:
- Age Pension
- Disability Support Pension (DSP)
- Carer Payment or Carer Allowance
- JobSeeker Payment
- Youth Allowance, Austudy, or ABSTUDY
- Parenting Payment (Single or Partnered)
- Commonwealth Seniors Health Card
- Low Income Health Card
- Family Tax Benefit Part A or B
Important: You must have had an active and eligible payment on record by March 31, 2025, to qualify for the bonus.
When Will the $400 Be Paid?
Payments are scheduled to be disbursed in mid to late April 2025, aligning with Centrelink’s regular payment cycle. There is no need to apply, as the payment will be made automatically to those who qualify.
Most eligible individuals will see the bonus land in their account between April 14 and April 28, 2025.
How to Check Your Eligibility
If you’re unsure whether you qualify, you can:
- Log in to your myGov account
- Navigate to the Centrelink section
- Check under “Payment Summary” or “Upcoming Payments”
- Contact Centrelink
- Call 132 300 to speak to a service representative
- Visit your nearest Centrelink service centre for help
- Update Personal Details
- Ensure your banking and contact details are current in the system
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Payment Amount | $400 (one-off, tax-free) |
| Payment Date | Between April 14–28, 2025 |
| Eligibility Date | Must be receiving eligible payment by March 31, 2025 |
| Application Required | No – Paid automatically |
| Eligible Groups | Pensioners, carers, students, job seekers, parents, low-income cardholders |
The $400 Centrelink bonus set for April 2025 is a much-needed lifeline for many Australians struggling with the cost of living. If you receive eligible government support and your status was active by March 31, you’re likely on the list for this tax-free payment.
With no application required, make sure your Centrelink and bank account details are up-to-date, and stay alert for your April payment notification via myGov.
FAQs
Do I need to apply for the $400 Centrelink bonus?
A: No, the payment will be made automatically to those who qualify based on eligibility as of March 31, 2025.
Will this affect my regular Centrelink benefits?
A: No, this is a separate one-time bonus and will not impact your ongoing Centrelink payments or eligibility.
I updated my bank details recently. Will it delay my payment?
A: Ensure your bank details are current in myGov or Centrelink to avoid delays. If already updated, your payment should be processed without issue.