In a move to ease financial pressure on Australian households, Centrelink has confirmed a $400 one-off direct payment in April 2025. This payment is part of the government’s cost of living support strategy to help eligible individuals and families cover essential expenses during a time of economic strain.
If you’re receiving government support, this could be welcome news. Here’s everything you need to know about the $400 Centrelink payment, including eligibility, payment dates, and what to expect.
What Is the $400 Centrelink Payment?
The $400 direct payment is a one-time, tax-free support payment provided to individuals already receiving certain Centrelink benefits. It will be paid directly into eligible recipients’ bank accounts and will not affect regular fortnightly payments or entitlements.
This bonus is intended to assist with everyday costs such as groceries, fuel, rent, and energy bills as prices remain high throughout 2025.
Who Is Eligible?
To receive the $400 payment, you must be receiving one of the following Centrelink benefits as of March 31, 2025:
- Age Pension
- Disability Support Pension (DSP)
- Carer Payment
- JobSeeker Payment
- Parenting Payment
- Youth Allowance
- Family Tax Benefit (A or B)
- Commonwealth Seniors Health Card holders
There is no need to apply for the payment separately—if you’re eligible, it will be issued automatically using your existing payment details on file.
When Will the $400 Payment Be Made?
The Centrelink $400 payment will be distributed between April 15 and April 30, 2025. Your exact payment date may vary depending on the benefit type and your regular payment schedule.
| Benefit Type | Estimated Payment Window |
|---|---|
| Age Pension, DSP, Carer Payment | April 15–22, 2025 |
| JobSeeker, Parenting, Youth Allowance | April 20–27, 2025 |
| Family Tax Benefit Recipients | April 23–30, 2025 |
To avoid any delays, ensure your personal and banking information is up to date in your myGov account.
Sample Payment Breakdown
Here’s how the $400 bonus would add to a recipient’s typical fortnightly Centrelink payment in April:
| Payment Type | Regular Fortnightly Payment | $400 Bonus | Total for April |
|---|---|---|---|
| Age Pension (Single) | $1,149.00 | $400 | $1,549.00 |
| JobSeeker (Single) | $789.90 | $400 | $1,189.90 |
| Parenting Payment | $1,030.30 | $400 | $1,430.30 |
| Youth Allowance (Single) | $477.10 | $400 | $877.10 |
Note: Payment figures shown above are approximations and may vary depending on personal circumstances.
What You Should Do
To make sure you receive the payment without issues:
- Log in to myGov: Make sure your Centrelink-linked myGov account is active and up to date.
- Update your info: Verify your bank details, contact number, and address.
- Check your balance: Monitor your bank account during the payment window (April 15–30, 2025).
No additional steps or forms are needed if you’re already receiving a qualifying payment.
The $400 Centrelink payment in April 2025 provides timely relief to eligible Australians feeling the squeeze from higher costs.
Whether you’re a pensioner, job seeker, carer, or a family receiving tax benefits, this payment is designed to ease financial pressure. By ensuring your details are up to date, you’ll be ready to receive your bonus with no delay.
FAQs
Do I have to apply to receive the $400 Centrelink payment?
No, the payment is issued automatically to eligible recipients.
Will the $400 affect my existing benefits?
No, it is a one-off, tax-free payment and will not reduce or impact your regular payments.
What if I don’t get my payment by April 30?
Double-check your eligibility and make sure your banking information is current. If everything is correct, contact Centrelink for clarification.