Finance Australia

Increased $850 Australia Bonus Payment Coming in March 2025: Check Payout Dates & Eligibility

From March 20, 2025, millions of Australians will receive increased Centrelink payments, including the Age Pension, JobSeeker Payment, Parenting Payment, and Family Tax Benefits. These changes aim to help recipients keep up with rising living costs. While rumors suggest a $850 bonus, no official confirmation exists. Learn about eligibility, payout dates, and new payment rates in this detailed guide.

By Anthony Lane
Published on
Increased $850 Australia Bonus Payment Coming in March 2025
Increased $850 Australia Bonus Payment Coming in March 2025

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 TypeIncrease per FortnightNew Fortnightly RateEligibility Criteria
Age Pension (Single)$4.60$1,149.00Australian residents aged 67+ who meet income & asset tests.
Age Pension (Couple, each)$3.50$866.10Couples where both partners are aged 67+ and meet requirements.
JobSeeker Payment (Single)$3.10$789.90Aged 22 to pension age, unemployed & actively seeking work.
Parenting Payment (Single)$4.00$1,030.30Single parents with at least one child under 8 years old.
Family Tax Benefit Part AUp to $7.90Varies per childFamilies with dependent children, based on income.
Family Tax Benefit Part BUp to $5.40Varies per situationSingle-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

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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.

Author
Anthony Lane
I’m a finance news writer for UPExcisePortal.in, passionate about simplifying complex economic trends, market updates, and investment strategies for readers. My goal is to provide clear and actionable insights that help you stay informed and make smarter financial decisions. Thank you for reading, and I hope you find my articles valuable!

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