Australian Centrelink Payment 2024 December: Australian Centrelink Payment are set to increase in Australia from this month. If you are receiving Centrelink assistance, this is important news for you. Now is the time to check your Australian Centrelink Payment eligibility and find out when you will receive the increased payment amount. In this article, we will give you all the information you need so that you can take full advantage of this increase.
Yes, the government is here to help you again! Millions of Australians will see a hike in Centrelink Payment from this month. This includes a significant increase in pensions, Disability Support and schemes like Jobseeker. All this is happening at a time when inflation is skyrocketing, and everyone is struggling to keep up with their expenses.
Increased Australian Centrelink Payment 2024
This “gift” from the government is actually part of a regular process called indexation. That is, when inflation rises, Australian Centrelink Payment are also increased accordingly. But only those who fall under the purview of this change will benefit from this. So, are you eligible? And how much of an increase can you expect?
In this article, we will tell you:
- How much is the increase,
- Who is eligible for this increase,
- How to make sure you are getting this benefit.
If you’re already receiving an Australian Centrelink Payment, or thinking you might, this guide will help you understand everything. Because when the government is raining money, who wants to miss out?
Why is Australian Centrelink Payment increasing?
The Australian government regularly increases Centrelink payments to ensure that these payments keep pace with inflation and the rising cost of living. This process is called indexation, and it takes place twice a year – in March and September. However, this year’s increase is coming in this month, following a 2.6% increase in September 2024.
This means that rising inflation, especially the pressure on housing, energy, and daily living necessities, is now being taken more seriously by the government. This move is extremely important for many families who benefit from this increase as it will help maintain their purchasing power.
What changes will be seen in Australian Centrelink Payment?
The increase in payments this time is not just a minor change. It is a necessary step from the government, which aims to maintain people’s standard of living and help them balance financially with rising costs. For example:
Age Pension and Disability Support Pension
- Age Pension and Disability Support Pension recipients will see their monthly payments increase by hundreds of dollars, helping them to cover rent, bills, and essential expenses.
Jobseeker
- For social security payment recipients such as Jobseeker, this change will provide financial support during the job search process, so they don’t have to struggle to pay for their basic needs.
Families and careers
- Families and careers will also benefit from this increase, especially those who already rely on social welfare and have limited other sources of income.
What is the maximum increase in Australian Centrelink Payment?
The Centrelink payment increase has different maximum amounts for different groups. Let’s know how much maximum increase each group can get:
| Age Pension | Single recipient: Up to a maximum of $1,144.40 per fortnight. Couples (joint): Up to a maximum of $1,725.20 per fortnight |
| Jobseeker | Singles (without children): Up to a maximum of $833.20 per fortnight. Singles over 55 years of age or singles with dependent children: Increase in the same amount. |
| Disability Support Pension (DSP) | Single recipient: Up to a maximum of $1,144.40 per fortnight. Couples (joint): There will be a proportionate adjustment |
| Parenting Payments | Parenting Payment Single: up to a maximum of $978.60 per fortnight. Partnered: up to a maximum of $712.30 per fortnight. |
Overall
The maximum increase to Centrelink payments depends on your situation and the payment you receive. Recipients of Seniors Pension and Disability Support will receive a maximum of $1,144.40 per fortnight, while Jobseeker recipients will receive up to $833.20. This kind of increase will help to keep up with inflation and reduce the impact of rising cost of living.
How to check if you’re eligible for an Australian Centrelink Payment Increase?
If you want to benefit from the Centrelink payment increase due in this month, it’s important to check your eligibility. Here are some simple ways to find out if you’re eligible for the increase:
Use your MyGov account
- The quickest and easiest way to check your information and eligibility is through your MyGov account. If you already have a Centrelink account:
Log in to the MyGov website or the MyGov app.
- Link your Centrelink account or select the “Centrelink” option if you’re already linked.
- You’ll find your eligibility and payment information in your profile. From there, you can see which payments you’re receiving and whether they’re eligible for the increase.
Visit the Centrelink website
- If you don’t want to use MyGov, you can also check your eligibility on the official Centrelink website.
- From there you can view details by your category (e.g. Age Pension, Jobseeker, DSP etc) and find out which payments and increases you’re entitled to.
Fact Check
If you’re already receiving Centrelink payments, you’ll automatically receive this increase. However, it’s important to make sure your information is up to date with Centrelink. If you’ve recently made a change to your bank details, place of residence, or family situation, update them with Centrelink immediately to avoid disruptions to your payments. Also, if you’re not yet receiving payments from Centrelink but think you may be eligible, check your eligibility and apply by visiting the Centrelink website or through your MyGov account.
To avoid becoming a victim of misinformation, always verify claims through official government websites or consult a financial advisor.
