With the rising cost of living continuing to strain Aussie households, many Australians receiving Centrelink support are eager for financial relief. In 2025, attention has turned to a new $890 Centrelink bonus, which has sparked interest across the country.
This one-time payment aims to support eligible individuals by providing a meaningful cash injection to help manage essentials such as groceries, rent, bills, and healthcare.
Here’s everything you need to know about the $890 Centrelink bonus in 2025, including who qualifies, when it will be paid, and how you can maximise your benefits.
What Is the $890 Centrelink Bonus?
The $890 Centrelink bonus is a proposed one-off payment for certain Centrelink recipients in 2025. This bonus is intended as a cost-of-living support boost, giving relief to eligible low-income households and vulnerable Australians. The payment will not be ongoing and is not taxable.
Unlike regular fortnightly benefits, the $890 bonus is a lump sum that will be paid directly into recipients’ nominated accounts. It is expected to complement existing support payments like the Age Pension, JobSeeker, Parenting Payment, and Disability Support Pension.
Who Is Eligible for the $890 Bonus in 2025?
To qualify for the $890 Centrelink bonus, individuals must meet specific criteria. Although formal eligibility details are yet to be fully finalised, based on previous bonus payments, those who may qualify include:
- Age Pensioners
- JobSeeker recipients
- People on Parenting Payment or Disability Support Pension
- Carers receiving Carer Payment
- Recipients of Youth Allowance, Austudy, or Abstudy
- Holders of Commonwealth Seniors Health Card or Pensioner Concession Card
To be eligible:
- You must be receiving a qualifying payment during the reference period.
- Your income and assets must remain within the standard thresholds for your payment type.
- Your Centrelink account should be active and up-to-date with your personal and financial details.
When Will the $890 Be Paid?
The $890 bonus is expected to be rolled out in mid to late 2025, depending on when eligibility checks are completed. Payments will be automatic, so no separate application will be required — but your details must be current.
Here’s a general timeline:
| Stage | Estimated Timeframe |
|---|---|
| Announcement | First half of 2025 |
| Eligibility assessment | Mid-2025 |
| Bonus payments begin | Mid to late 2025 |
Exact payment dates may vary depending on your Centrelink payment cycle.
How to Make Sure You Get It
To ensure you receive the $890 bonus (if eligible):
- Update your myGov account with current banking and personal details.
- Confirm your Centrelink entitlements haven’t changed.
- Check your income/assets to make sure you remain within the qualifying thresholds.
- Report changes promptly to avoid delays or disqualification.
Other Centrelink Changes in 2025
In addition to the $890 bonus, several payment increases and adjustments have taken effect:
- Age Pension increased by $4.60 per fortnight (now $1,149.00 for singles)
- JobSeeker increased by $3.10 per fortnight (now $789.90 for singles with no children)
- Parenting Payment increased by $4.00 per fortnight (now $1,030.30 for single parents)
- Rent Assistance increased by up to $37 per fortnight depending on household type
These ongoing boosts aim to improve financial stability for individuals relying on income support.
The $890 Centrelink bonus for 2025 is a timely support measure designed to ease financial pressure on Australians doing it tough.
Whether you’re a pensioner, job seeker, or parent juggling bills, this one-off payment can provide real relief. Stay informed, keep your details up to date, and make sure you’re in the best position to receive everything you’re entitled to this year.
Keep an eye on your Centrelink account and myGov notifications for updates — that bonus could be just around the corner.
FAQs
Do I need to apply for the $890 Centrelink bonus?
No. If you’re eligible, the payment will be deposited automatically into your bank account. Make sure your details are updated on your Centrelink and myGov account.
Is the $890 payment taxable?
No. The $890 Centrelink bonus is non-taxable and won’t affect your tax return or impact other payments.
Can I receive the bonus along with other Centrelink payments?
Yes. The $890 is in addition to your regular Centrelink payments, such as Age Pension or JobSeeker.