Australia Centrelink Update: Housing, electricity, transport, and grocery prices are rising in Australia. In September 2025, Centrelink implemented indexation in payments so that pension and income-support amounts increase in line with inflation. There is no new one-time bonus in November, but the September increased rates will continue across all regular payment cycles.
What Changed in November 2025
No separate bonus was announced in November; but the September increase is now applied to every payment. This means that payments such as Age Pension, Disability Support, JobSeeker, Parenting Payment, and Rent Assistance will be paid at the same higher rate as they were in September.
Brief Summary
Generally, the payment cycle and support remain the same, but the nominal rates have increased. Payment dates will be around November 6 and 20, 2025, as per the normal Fortnight cycle. Additional energy and rent assistance will also remain active for eligible households.
New Fortnightly Rates (Summary)
The Fortnightly rate for the Single Age Pension and Disability Support Pension is now approximately $1,116.30; the combined rate for couples is $1,831.00. Adjusted rates for JobSeeker, Parenting Payment, and Rent Assistance also apply. Actual payments may vary depending on individual eligibility and asset tests.
Eligibility Rules (November Applicable)
Eligibility rules remain the same: Australian residency, income and asset tests, age or family status, and health-based needs. Claims that are already open do not need to reapply—Centrelink updates them automatically.
November 2025 Payment Schedule
Most recipients will see payments in the Fortnightly cycle around November 6 and 20. Bank processing may cause slight variations in timing; cheques or third-party payments may arrive later.
Cost-of-living relief measures continue
Schemes such as energy bill relief, PBS concessions, transport discounts, and targeted rent assistance will remain active. State-level rebates and local programs will also continue to help some families.
How Centrelink determines increases
Centrelink conducts indexation in March and September. For pensions, the highest increase is applied between the CPI, the Pensioner & Beneficiary Living Cost Index (PBLCI), and the 27.7% MTAWE. This approach is adopted to preserve the purchasing power of the pension.
Practical Tips (for Recipients)
Keep your bank and contact details updated in MyGov and the Express Plus Centrelink app. Check payment statements regularly, seek budget advice from the Financial Information Service (FIS), and disregard any suspicious messages—Centrelink does not ask for a password or OTP.
What to expect for 2026
The next indexation is in March 2026; Further increases of 1–2.5% are possible depending on economic conditions. Reviews of housing and energy policies may also impact further support options.
FAQs (summarized)
Is there a new bonus in November?
— No, only the September rate increases are continuing.
Do I need to reapply?
— No, ongoing claims are automatically updated.
When does the payment arrive?
— Normal cycle: around November 6 and 20, 2025.
Conclusion
November 2025 is a month of assurance—the new relief amount has already been implemented and is now being paid in regular cycles. Keep your digital accounts updated, take advantage of available concessions, and verify your payment by contacting Centrelink directly if necessary.
