Introduction
Centrelink, a part of Services Australia, offers a range of financial assistance programs to support Australians through economic hardship, cost-of-living pressures, and various life transitions. One of the most talked-about initiatives this year is the $2,800 Centrelink payment expected to be distributed to eligible recipients in June 2025.
Whether you’re already receiving Centrelink benefits or believe you may qualify due to recent circumstances, this guide provides all the information you need to understand your eligibility, how to apply, and when to expect the funds.
2. What is the $2,800 Centrelink Payment?
The $2,800 payment is a one-off lump sum financial support measure designed to assist low-to-middle income Australians struggling with increased living costs. It aims to alleviate financial pressures on individuals and families, particularly those receiving existing Centrelink benefits such as:
- JobSeeker Payment
- Age Pension
- Disability Support Pension
- Youth Allowance
- Parenting Payment
- Austudy or Abstudy
- Carer Payment
The payment is not considered taxable income and won’t affect your regular fortnightly payments, making it a beneficial supplement to regular support.

3. Who Is Eligible for the $2,800 Payment?
Eligibility for the payment depends on several criteria, which Services Australia will use to assess automatic or claim-based approval. Below is a breakdown of potential eligibility conditions:
Basic Eligibility Criteria:
Criteria | Requirement |
---|---|
Residency | Must be a permanent resident or Australian citizen |
Payment Type | Must receive an eligible Centrelink payment |
Income Threshold | Must fall below income/asset limits as of May 2025 |
Age | Varies by payment type (e.g., JobSeeker 22+, Pension 65+) |
Activity Test Compliance | Must comply with job-seeking or study requirements |
Tax File Number | Must be provided and up to date with Services Australia |
Special Considerations:
- If you receive multiple benefits, you may still only receive one lump sum.
- Temporary visa holders and those on bridging visas are generally excluded.
- Claimants undergoing a review or appeal process might face delays.
4. Application Process – How to Claim
The $2,800 Centrelink payment will be automatically deposited to eligible individuals who meet the criteria. However, in some cases, you may need to submit a formal claim. Here’s what to expect:
Step-by-Step Guide:
- Log into MyGov linked with Centrelink.
- Navigate to “Supplementary Payments” under your Centrelink dashboard.
- If eligible, you’ll see a notification and an option to “Confirm Details”.
- Upload any required documentation such as:
- Proof of income (bank statements, payslips)
- Rental or housing costs
- Dependents or caring responsibilities
- Submit your claim before the deadline (anticipated to be 30 June 2025).
5. Payment Dates and Distribution Timeline
Expected Timeline for June 2025 Payment:
Milestone | Estimated Date |
---|---|
Announcement of Payment | Early May 2025 |
MyGov Notification Begins | 20 May 2025 |
Application Window (if required) | 20 May – 30 June 2025 |
Automatic Payments Begin | 5 June 2025 |
Final Round of Payments | 15 July 2025 |
Payments will be processed in waves, prioritized based on:
- Vulnerability (e.g., disability or single parent)
- Rural or remote area access
- Existing payment stream
You will receive a text or email notification once your payment has been processed.

6. Impact on Other Benefits
The good news is that this payment is non-assessable income, which means:
- It won’t reduce your regular Centrelink payments
- Won’t impact your tax return
- Won’t affect your Family Tax Benefit, Rent Assistance, or energy supplements
However, you should still report it in your financial activity if you are receiving other government or state-based assistance programs that request lump-sum disclosures.
7. How to Prepare Your Documents
To avoid delays, gather and prepare the following:
Required Documents:
Document | Purpose |
---|---|
Proof of Identity | Passport, Driver’s License, Medicare card |
Proof of Income | Payslips, bank statements, Centrelink letters |
Proof of Residence | Lease, utility bill, rental statement |
TFN and Superannuation Info | For tax integrity and matching |
Supporting Care Documents (if carer) | Proof of dependent’s medical condition, etc. |
Ensure your Centrelink profile is up to date before June 2025 to minimize verification delays.
8. Conclusion
The $2,800 Centrelink Payment in June 2025 is a critical measure intended to provide meaningful relief to Australians facing cost-of-living challenges. By understanding the eligibility criteria, payment dates, and documentation requirements, you can ensure a smooth process whether your payment is automatic or claim-based.
Take action early, stay informed through MyGov, and don’t hesitate to contact Services Australia if you face any issues.
9. Reference Table of Key Dates & Eligibility Overview
Event | Details |
---|---|
Payment Name | $2,800 Cost-of-Living Support Payment |
Administered By | Services Australia / Centrelink |
Eligibility | Age Pension, DSP, JobSeeker, Youth Allowance, etc. |
Application Method | Mostly automatic via MyGov |
Application Window | 20 May – 30 June 2025 |
First Payment Date | 5 June 2025 |
Final Payment Date | 15 July 2025 |
Taxable? | No |
Impact on Other Payments? | None |
10. FAQs
1. Will everyone on Centrelink receive the $2,800 payment?
No, only those who meet specific eligibility criteria, including income limits and residency status, will receive it.
2. Do I need to apply manually or will it be automatic?
Most payments will be automatic. However, some users may need to confirm details or update documentation on MyGov.
3. What if I recently lost my job in May 2025 – am I still eligible?
Possibly. If you’ve already applied for JobSeeker or a similar benefit and are approved, you could receive the lump sum.
4. Will this affect my tax return in 2025–26?
No. The $2,800 is a non-taxable, non-reportable Centrelink support measure.
5. What should I do if I haven’t received my payment by July?
Contact Services Australia directly through your Centrelink online account or call 132 850 for support.