Increased $850 Australia Bonus Payment Coming in March 2025: Millions of Australians are set to receive increased Centrelink payments in March 2025, thanks to the government’s cost-of-living adjustments. These increases aim to provide financial relief to pensioners, job seekers, parents, and families receiving government support. While rumors have circulated about a one-time $850 bonus payment, there is no confirmed announcement from the government or Centrelink. However, fortnightly payment increases across multiple benefits—including the Age Pension, JobSeeker Payment, Parenting Payment, and Family Tax Benefits—will take effect from March 20, 2025. If you’re receiving Centrelink benefits, it’s essential to understand who is eligible, when payments will be made, and how much you’ll receive. Let’s break down everything you need to know.
Increased $850 Australia Bonus Payment Coming in March 2025
The March 2025 Centrelink payment increases are designed to help Australians keep up with the cost of living. While there is no confirmed $850 bonus, eligible recipients will see a boost in their fortnightly payments, including the Age Pension, JobSeeker Payment, Parenting Payment, and Family Tax Benefits.
| Payment Type | Increase per Fortnight | New Fortnightly Rate | Eligibility Criteria |
|---|---|---|---|
| Age Pension (Single) | $4.60 | $1,149.00 | Australian residents aged 67+ who meet income & asset tests. |
| Age Pension (Couple, each) | $3.50 | $866.10 | Couples where both partners are aged 67+ and meet requirements. |
| JobSeeker Payment (Single) | $3.10 | $789.90 | Aged 22 to pension age, unemployed & actively seeking work. |
| Parenting Payment (Single) | $4.00 | $1,030.30 | Single parents with at least one child under 8 years old. |
| Family Tax Benefit Part A | Up to $7.90 | Varies per child | Families with dependent children, based on income. |
| Family Tax Benefit Part B | Up to $5.40 | Varies per situation | Single-parent families or single-income families with kids. |
Why Are Centrelink Payments Increasing?
Twice a year, in March and September, Centrelink adjusts payments to keep up with inflation. This process, called indexation, ensures that payments reflect changes in the cost of living. The March 2025 adjustments align with inflation trends and wage growth to help Australians afford basic necessities.
According to the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS), inflation in 2024 remained high, affecting food, rent, energy, and transportation costs. To combat this, the government has increased welfare payments to maintain purchasing power for lower-income Australians.
Breakdown of Centrelink Payment Increases in March 2025
1. Age Pension
The Age Pension provides financial support to senior Australians who meet residency, income, and asset requirements. From March 20, 2025, payments will increase as follows:
- Single Pensioners: Increase of $4.60 per fortnight → New rate: $1,149.00
- Couples (each): Increase of $3.50 per fortnight → New rate: $866.10 per person
Eligibility Criteria:
- Must be 67 years or older
- Must be an Australian resident for at least 10 years (with at least 5 consecutive years)
- Subject to income and asset tests
2. JobSeeker Payment
The JobSeeker Payment supports unemployed Australians who are actively seeking work. From March 20, 2025, recipients will get:
- Single, No Children: Increase of $3.10 per fortnight → New rate: $789.90
- Couples (each): Increase of $2.80 per fortnight → New rate: $723.00 per person
Eligibility Criteria:
- Aged 22 to pension age
- Must be unemployed and actively looking for work
- Must meet residency requirements and income/asset limits
3. Parenting Payment
The Parenting Payment helps single parents and low-income couples raise young children. From March 2025:
- Single Parents: Increase of $4.00 per fortnight → New rate: $1,030.30
- Partnered Parents: Increase varies based on income.
Eligibility Criteria:
- Single Parents: Must have at least one child under 8 years old.
- Partnered Parents: Must have at least one child under 6 years old.
- Payments depend on income and asset thresholds.
4. Family Tax Benefit (FTB)
The Family Tax Benefit (FTB) helps families with the cost of raising children.
FTB Part A:
- Increase: Up to $7.90 per fortnight (depends on number & age of children).
- Available to families with dependent children.
FTB Part B:
- Increase: Up to $5.40 per fortnight.
- Available to single parents or single-income families.
How to Check Your New Increased $850 Australia Bonus Payment Coming in March 2025 Amount?
1. Log Into Your MyGov Account
- Go to my.gov.au.
- Link your Centrelink account.
- Check your updated payment schedule.
2. Use the Centrelink Mobile App
- Download the Express Plus Centrelink app.
- View payment dates and amounts.
3. Call Centrelink
- Age Pension: 132 300
- JobSeeker/Parenting Payment: 132 850
- Family Tax Benefit: 136 150
Centrelink Jobseeker Payment In March 2025 – Check Payment Amount, Eligibility & Payout Date
Centrelink Food Vouchers 2025 – Check Payment Amount, Date & Eligibility
Australia Centrelink Crisis Payment in March 2025: Check Payment Amount, Eligibility & Dates
Frequently Asked Questions About Increased $850 Australia Bonus Payment Coming in March 2025
1. Is there an $850 Centrelink Bonus in March 2025?
There is no confirmed $850 one-time bonus from Centrelink. The current changes involve fortnightly payment increases based on inflation adjustments.
2. Do I need to apply for the increased payments?
No. If you are already receiving Centrelink payments, the increase will be applied automatically from March 20, 2025.
3. When will I receive my updated payment?
The first increased payments will be deposited starting March 20, 2025.
4. Can I receive more than one Centrelink payment?
Yes, depending on your circumstances. For example, you may receive both Family Tax Benefit and JobSeeker Payment if you meet eligibility requirements.
5. How do I know if I qualify for these payments?
Visit Services Australia or call Centrelink to check your eligibility.
