Good news for Centrelink recipients in Australia. The government is providing a one-off $250 payment to help with rising living costs, including groceries, bills, and rent.
Important Deadline: Applications close on 22 April 2026.
What is the $250 Cost of Living Payment?
It is a one-time $250 payment from Services Australia to assist people receiving Centrelink payments with the increased cost of living due to inflation.
Who Can Receive the $250?
You may be eligible if you hold one of the following cards:
- Pensioner Concession Card
- Health Care Card
- Commonwealth Seniors Health Card
- Recipients of JobSeeker, Youth Allowance, Parenting Payment, or other Centrelink allowances
Most current Centrelink recipients qualify automatically, but you still need to claim the payment.
How to Claim the $250 Payment
- Log into your myGov account linked with Centrelink
- Go to the “Cost of Living Assistance” or “Claim” section
- Submit the claim (most information will be pre-filled)
- Submit before 22 April 2026
You can also claim in person at a Centrelink office.
Payment Timing: Once approved, the money is usually deposited into your bank account within 2 to 4 weeks.
Quick Summary
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| Payment Amount | $250 (one-off) |
| Deadline | 22 April 2026 |
| Payment Method | Direct deposit |
| Who Qualifies | Centrelink card holders |
| Automatic? | Many are, but you must claim |
Recommendation: Don’t miss out on this support. Check your eligibility and submit your claim as soon as possible through Services Australia.
Disclaimer: This information is based on details available in April 2026. For personalised confirmation, contact Centrelink directly or visit the official Services Australia website.