To combat the rising cost of living, the Australian Government has approved a one-off payment of $2,100 for eligible Centrelink recipients scheduled for distribution in early 2025. The payment was announced in late August and comes when there are deep concerns relating to the rising inflation rate and the strain on household budgets. This one-off payment is intended to ease some burden to help pensioners, people on disability support, and low-income families make ends meet and cope with rising living costs.
Who is Eligible and a Guide for Applications
The list of eligible recipients include people receiving Age Pension, Disability Support Pension, Carer Payment, Parenting Payment and Jobseeker Payment. To be eligible, a person has to be on a receiving Centrelink payment for at least three months prior to January 1, 2025.
For the majority, no action will need to be taken as the payment will be disbursed automatically into existing payment accounts. However, for new applicants, or those who wish to change their banking details, they will have to submit a claim through MyGov or call the dedicated helpline prior to February 28, 2025.
Effect on Household Budgets
For a large number of Australians, the $2,100 payment could specifically assist in covering utility bills for months, grocery shopping, or even lessening the medical expenses one might have.
Government and Community Actions
The Treasury’s statement emphasizes that the one-off payment forms part of the more comprehensive relief strategy aimed at alleviating the burden of inflation. “This targeted support underscores our commitment to protecting vulnerable Australians,” said a treasury spokesperson. At the same time, social service agencies and other relevant professionals are busy preparing materials and webinars to assist their clients with questions surrounding eligibility and access so that the payment will be channeled to those in need.
Further Actions and Key Dates
Payment recipients are encouraged to look out for communications from Centrelink in January 2025. Those who wish to change their banking details or those who anticipate a new payment come early 2025 need to update their particulars by February 28, 2025. All relevant documents and support services will be provided on the Services Australia website and at local Service Centres.