Millions of Australians are about to receive a welcome boost to their Centrelink payments, with increases kicking in from March 20.
From higher Age Pension and JobSeeker payments to more flexibility for carers and job seekers, these changes are set to impact over five million people across the country.
But that’s not all—there are also major shifts in compliance rules, meaning fewer people will have their payments cut off if they miss obligations. Here’s everything you need to know about the changes coming your way in March.
Centrelink Payment Increases: Who’s Getting More?
From March 20, millions of Age Pensioners, JobSeekers, Disability Support Pension recipients, carers, and parents will see their payments go up. This is part of the government’s twice-yearly indexation to keep up with the rising cost of living.
While the final figures will be officially announced in early March, estimates suggest:
- Age Pension (Singles): Up by $4.52 to $1,148.92 per fortnight, including supplements.
- Age Pension (Couples): Up by $6.84 to $1,732.02 per fortnight.
Other payments, including JobSeeker, Parenting Payment, and Commonwealth Rent Assistance, will also increase, with final amounts determined by the Consumer Price Index (CPI).
Jobseeker Compliance Rules: Fewer Cut-Offs
From March, fewer JobSeeker recipients will face sudden payment suspensions. Key changes include:
- New Workforce Australia and Disability Employment Services participants won’t face compliance action the first time they miss a requirement.
- Those working at least 30 hours per fortnight for two months won’t lose their Centrelink payments if they miss an appointment.
- Centrelink staff will review all penalty cases before cutting payments, instead of automatic suspensions.
This is a big shift from the previous system, where missing a single appointment could lead to immediate financial penalties.
More Work Flexibility for Carers
Carers are also getting a break, with new rules allowing them to work more hours without losing their Carer Payment.
- From March 20, carers can work up to 100 hours in a four-week period, instead of the previous 25 hours per week limit.
- They will still need to report their hours, but won’t have to include study, training, volunteering, or travel time.
- If carers exceed 100 hours, they can use respite days to keep their payment.
This means greater work flexibility for carers who are juggling financial needs and family responsibilities.
What’s Next?
With cost-of-living pressures mounting, these payment increases and rule changes come as a much-needed relief for millions of Australians. While small, the increases could help many stay afloat as inflation continues to hit household budgets.
The final payment amounts will be confirmed early next month, but for now, recipients can look forward to a boost in their bank accounts from March 20.
