From 20 September 2025, Centrelink will officially raise payment rates for a range of social welfare benefits to help Australians cope with the rising cost of living. This is part of the regular indexation to the Consumer Price Index (CPI), ensuring support for the most vulnerable groups in the community.

Payments being increased

According to the Australian Federal Government, the Centrelink payment increase September 2025 will apply to:

  • Age Pension
  • Carer Payment
  • Disability Support Pension
  • Plus other payments such as JobSeeker Payment and Youth Allowance.

For example, the Age Pension for a single person will increase to around AUD 1,178.70 per fortnight.

Why this increase matters

  • Financial support: Helping older Australians, people with disability, and carers ease the pressure of inflation.
  • Maintaining value: Payments are indexed to CPI to ensure purchasing power remains stable.
  • Government commitment: Reinforces the role of Australia’s social welfare system in protecting vulnerable groups.

Impact on the Social & Care sector

This increase is not only significant for payment recipients but also highlights the growing importance of the Social Work, Aged Care, Disability Support, and Community Services sectors in Australia. As demand for care and support services rises, career opportunities in these fields continue to expand — especially for international students and workers pursuing related qualifications.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

  1. When will Centrelink payments increase?
    From 20 September 2025, key payments such as Age Pension, Disability Support Pension, and Carer Payment will be adjusted.
  2. How much is the increase?
    Example: The Age Pension for a single person will rise to around AUD 1,178.70 per fortnight.
  3. Why does Centrelink adjust payments?
    To reflect higher living costs, payments are indexed to CPI to maintain their real value.
  4. Who benefits from this increase?
    Older Australians, people with disability, carers, and other social welfare recipients.

This increase not only provides additional financial support but also reaffirms the urgent demand for skilled workers in the Social & Care sector.

>> If you are exploring career pathways in Social & Care in Australia, connect with Next Gem to access the latest information and guidance.