In May 2025, Centrelink is rolling out a range of new and ongoing payments to help Australians deal with rising living costs. Whether you’re retired, looking for work, caring for someone, or living on a low income, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know. From payment amounts to key dates and how to apply, we’ve kept it simple, practical, and easy to follow.
Overview
The Centrelink payouts for May are part of a wider plan to ease financial pressure caused by inflation, housing stress, and rising everyday expenses. These payments offer both immediate relief and longer-term support to vulnerable Australians.
Here’s a snapshot of the key Centrelink payments in May 2025:
| Payment | Amount | Eligibility | Payment Dates | Application Required |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| $400 Cost of Living Supplement | $400 (one-off) | Age Pension, JobSeeker, Youth Allowance, Parenting Payment, Carer Payment | 13–24 May 2025 | No |
| $750 One-Time Cost of Living Relief | $750 (one-off) | Seniors, Veterans, Carers, Youth Allowance, JobSeeker recipients | 6–31 May 2025 | No |
| $780 Monthly Payment for Seniors | $780/month | Aged 67+, Age Pension, Carer Payment, Disability Pension, Seniors Card | Starting May 2025 | No |
| $2,100 Extra Benefit for Pensioners | $2,100 (one-off) | 67+, Age/Disability Pension or Carer Payment recipients | Mid–late 2025 (TBA) | No |
| $780 One-Off Support for Pensioners | $780 (one-off) | 67+, 10-year residents on Age Pension & meet income/assets test | May – Early July 2025 | No |
| Carer Payment | Up to $1,072.10/fortnight | Full-time carers for people with severe disability or illness | Ongoing | Yes |
Purpose
The goal of these payouts is clear: to support Australians facing economic pressure. With inflation sitting at over 6%, these extra payments are meant to cover rising energy bills, rent, groceries, and healthcare.
How to Apply
Already receiving Centrelink? Most payments are automatic. But if you’re new to the system or think you’re eligible for more, here’s what to do.
Step 1
Visit my.gov.au and log in or create a new account using your email and phone number.
Step 2
In your MyGov account, click “Link a service” and select Centrelink. You might need to answer some ID questions or get a linking code from Centrelink.
Step 3
Choose the payment you want (e.g., Carer Payment, JobSeeker, Age Pension) and complete the form. Upload any documents requested, such as ID, income statements, or proof of residence.
Step 4
Use MyGov to monitor your claim’s progress. Centrelink might contact you if they need more details.
Are These Payments Taxable?
Most one-off payments like the $400 and $750 supplements are tax-free. However, ongoing support like the Age Pension or Carer Payment may count toward your taxable income if you also have earnings from work or other sources.
Real-Life Examples
Let’s put things into perspective with a few examples.
Margaret, 74, VIC
Margaret lives on the Age Pension and will receive the $400 and $750 payments automatically in May. She also qualifies for the new $780 monthly payment, helping her stay ahead of winter bills.
Jake, 31, NSW
Jake receives JobSeeker and was surprised to see a pending $400 payment in his MyGov inbox. He’s also checking if he’s eligible for Rent Assistance to help cover rising rental costs.
Amira, 52, QLD
Amira cares full-time for her adult son and receives the Carer Payment. She’ll keep receiving $1,072.10/fortnight and will also get the $750 bonus in May—no paperwork needed.
Maximise Your Benefits
These tips can help you get the most out of your Centrelink entitlements:
- Update Your Details: Make sure Centrelink has your correct income, assets, and bank account info.
- Combine Payments: You might qualify for multiple benefits. For instance, a carer could also get the Energy Supplement or Rent Assistance.
- Use a Counsellor: Free financial counsellors from services like the National Debt Helpline can help you plan your budget.
- Review Annually: Your circumstances change, so do your entitlements. Reassess every 12 months.
Economic Outlook
The 2025 Federal Budget includes over $4.2 billion in new Centrelink measures. The aim? Offer meaningful cost-of-living relief without increasing inflation. According to the ABS, energy and grocery costs are the main drivers of financial stress in 2025, especially for retirees and carers. These payments are meant to bridge that gap and maintain economic balance.
FAQs
Do I need to apply for the May payments?
No, most will be paid automatically if you’re already receiving Centrelink.
When will I get the $400 supplement?
Between 13 and 24 May 2025, depending on your payment cycle.
Is the $750 payment taxable?
No, it’s tax-free and won’t affect your taxable income.
What if I’m new to Centrelink?
Create a MyGov account and link it to Centrelink to apply.
Can I get more than one payment?
Yes, many can receive multiple benefits if they meet the criteria.
