The Australian Government has officially confirmed a one-off Centrelink payment of $281.40 for eligible recipients in 2025.
As inflation and living costs continue to pressure low- and fixed-income households, this payment aims to provide timely financial relief to millions of Australians.
Let’s explore the eligibility, payment schedule, key details, and impact of this support initiative.
What Is the $281.40 Centrelink Payment?
The $281.40 Centrelink payment is a one-time tax-free supplement designed to help Australians manage their everyday living expenses, including food, rent, utilities, and transport. This payment is not a loan, nor does it require repayment.
It is part of a broader set of support measures to protect vulnerable individuals and families as cost-of-living pressures mount.
Who Is Eligible for the Payment?
To receive the $281.40 payment, individuals must be receiving one or more eligible Centrelink payments as of the qualifying date in April 2025. There is no need to apply—those meeting the requirements will receive it automatically.
Eligibility Includes Recipients Of:
- Age Pension
- Disability Support Pension
- Carer Payment
- JobSeeker Payment
- Youth Allowance
- Parenting Payment
- Austudy or ABSTUDY
- Veteran Pension or Payment
- Special Benefit
Only one payment per eligible person will be issued, even if the person qualifies under multiple programs. Those residing in Australia at the time of eligibility are included, and temporary residents or those overseas on the date may not qualify.
When Will the $281.40 Be Paid?
Centrelink has announced that the payment window will occur between April 15 and April 30, 2025, with exact dates varying based on individual payment cycles.
Public holidays may impact the deposit timing, particularly:
- Good Friday – April 18, 2025
- Easter Monday – April 21, 2025
- Anzac Day – April 25, 2025
Payments scheduled around these holidays may be sent earlier than usual.
Payment Details At A Glance
| Payment Component | Details |
|---|---|
| Amount | $281.40 (one-off) |
| Payment Dates | April 15–30, 2025 |
| Taxable? | No |
| Affects Other Benefits? | No impact on other Centrelink payments |
| Application Required? | No – paid automatically |
| Eligibility Cut-Off Date | Early April 2025 |
| Payment Method | Direct deposit to linked bank account |
How to Prepare for the Payment
You don’t need to fill out a form or register. However, to ensure your $281.40 payment is processed without delay:
- Update your bank details in your myGov account linked to Centrelink.
- Check your eligibility status if you’ve recently started or changed benefits.
- Review your payment schedule, especially if it falls around public holidays.
Why This Payment Matters
Many Australians are feeling the pinch from rising grocery bills, fuel costs, and rent hikes. The $281.40 payment is part of Centrelink’s strategy to support those on low or fixed incomes and protect against financial distress.
This payment can help cover:
- Utility bills
- Groceries
- Rent or mortgage payments
- Medical and health expenses
- School or childcare costs
It is also seen as a way to stimulate the economy, encouraging spending in essential sectors.
The Centrelink $281.40 cost-of-living payment in 2025 offers much-needed support to Australians navigating economic uncertainty. If you’re already receiving eligible benefits, rest assured this payment will be automatically deposited into your bank account.
Keep your details updated and stay informed via your myGov account to avoid missing this important support measure.
In a time of rising living expenses, every bit of assistance helps—and this payment is a practical step toward easing financial pressure for millions of Australians.
FAQs
Will I receive this payment more than once if I qualify under two benefits?
No. Only one payment of $281.40 will be issued per person, regardless of how many Centrelink programs they qualify for.
Do I need to report the payment in my tax return?
No. The payment is tax-free and does not need to be reported as income to the ATO.
What if I haven’t received my payment by the end of April 2025?
If your payment hasn’t arrived by April 30, 2025, you should log into your myGov account to check your payment history or contact Centrelink directly for support.