In a welcome move for Australians facing the pressure of rising living costs, Centrelink has confirmed a one-time $400 bonus payment to be issued in April 2025. This additional support targets individuals and families already receiving various government benefits, providing extra financial relief when it’s needed most.
This article explains everything you need to know about the bonus — eligibility, payment schedule, benefit types, and how to make sure you receive it on time.
What Is the $400 Centrelink Bonus?
The $400 Centrelink bonus is a non-taxable, one-off payment issued by the Australian government to help eligible welfare recipients meet essential needs.
This measure is part of broader cost-of-living assistance and is automatically processed for those who qualify. There is no need to apply manually.
Who Is Eligible for the $400 Bonus?
To receive the $400 Centrelink payment in April 2025, you must meet the following conditions:
- Be an active recipient of at least one eligible Centrelink payment as of March 31, 2025
- Be residing in Australia
- Have accurate and updated personal information in your Centrelink or myGov account
The bonus applies to recipients of:
- Age Pension
- Disability Support Pension
- Carer Payment
- JobSeeker Payment
- Parenting Payment
- Youth Allowance
- Austudy
- Veterans’ Affairs Payments
- Pensioner Concession Card holders
When Will the $400 Be Paid?
The $400 Centrelink bonus will be distributed between April 15 and April 30, 2025. The exact date will vary based on your usual payment cycle and Centrelink benefit type.
Payments will be automatically deposited into your registered bank account. To avoid delays, make sure your banking details and personal information are up to date in your myGov account.
Bonus Payment – April 2025
| Centrelink Benefit Type | Regular Fortnightly Rate (Single) | One-Time Bonus | Total in April |
|---|---|---|---|
| Age Pension | $1,149.00 | $400 | $1,549.00 |
| JobSeeker Payment | $789.90 | $400 | $1,189.90 |
| Disability Support Pension | $1,149.00 | $400 | $1,549.00 |
| Carer Payment | $1,149.00 | $400 | $1,549.00 |
| Parenting Payment | $1,030.30 | $400 | $1,430.30 |
| Youth Allowance (18+, at home) | $477.10 | $400 | $877.10 |
All figures are approximate and for single individuals. Couple payments may vary.
How to Ensure You Receive the Bonus
To make sure you receive the $400 Centrelink bonus without any hiccups:
- Check your bank details are correct in myGov
- Confirm your eligibility status by reviewing your current benefit payments
- Log in to your myGov account during April to track your payment history
No action is required beyond keeping your information current. The bonus is automatically sent to qualifying recipients.
The $400 Centrelink bonus coming in April 2025 is a timely financial lifeline for many Australians coping with rising living costs. If you receive eligible payments and your information is up to date, you don’t need to lift a finger — the bonus will be sent straight to your bank account.
Keep an eye on your payment history in myGov, ensure your details are current, and enjoy a little extra support when it matters most.
FAQs
Will the $400 bonus affect my regular Centrelink payments or tax obligations?
No. The $400 is non-taxable and won’t reduce or affect your ongoing Centrelink benefits.
Can I still receive the bonus if I start receiving benefits after April 1, 2025?
No. You must be receiving a qualifying payment on or before March 31, 2025, to be eligible for this bonus.
What if I don’t receive the bonus by April 30?
First, check your bank and myGov account. If the bonus hasn’t arrived, contact Centrelink to verify your payment status.