Beginning September 20, 2025, over five million Australians who use Centrelink social security payments, are scheduled to get a gentle increase in their income. This includes an increase in the JobSeeker Payment, Disability Support Pension, Carer Payment, and other associated payments, with the most commonly referenced figure nearing $952 which would be the new approximated payment some recipients would get on a fortnightly basis. This is in line with the government’s attempts to support its citizens combat inflation and the rising cost of living, especially in food, rent, and medical expenses.
How the Payment is Structured
While the payment is an increase of $952, it is important to note that the figure is not static. It is based on circumstances and types of supports available to the claimant. For instance, single recipients of the JobSeeker Payment will see an approximate increase of $12.50 resulting in a new payment of $793 per fortnight. Receivers from partnered relationships get a little lower. Proportional increments are also applied to Parenting Payments and ABSTUDY (assistance for Indigenous students). The $952 figure is a symbol of the rising support that is aimed to be provided.
The Deeming Rates and Pensioner Impact
The increase in the September payee met coincides with the increase in deeming rates the notional interest rates for income calculation’s for financial assets income for the pensioners assessment. The rates are set at a lower bound of 0.25% and 2.25% transitioning to 0.75% and 2.75% respectively.
This means some pensioners may have to forgo Centrelink income. Centrelink income is expected to fall. The net impact of the payment increases is to assist pensioners while the transaction increases counter the payment decreases. The net impact is a large payment increases with the net impact income advance.[3]
What the Government Says
The government’s statement explained the revisions are made to the increase in the social security gap due to the increase in inflation. Social services minister Tanya Plibersek emphasized the social fence is not a set limit. They are continuing to protect social services for the need in the way and in the social nets. Plibersek explained these are assisting over 5 million people and the need and rational indexation determines the social welfare system.
Navigating the Changes
Anyone receiving Centrelink payments should pay more attention to their eligibility and monitor their statements more closely over the next few weeks. The more recent income and assets thresholds as well as the payment changes may impact eligibility differently. Seeking help from Centrelink or financial counsellors can better inform the personal situation to assist in making the right choices.
To put it differently, the statement, ‘Centrelink payment of $952’ captures something deeper than what it is. It is a payment that is aimed to assist Australians in tough times, aimed at balancing care and financial control. The changes are hoped to help Australians more and assist households in the times of uncertainty.