Australians are set to receive some much-needed financial relief. A one-time $497 Cost of Living Relief Payment has been officially approved by the government to ease the burden of inflation and rising expenses. The payment is designed to support millions of eligible recipients already receiving Centrelink benefits.
Here’s everything you need to know – including eligibility, payment dates, how to claim, and more.
Who Is Eligible for the $497 Relief Payment ?
To receive the $497 cost-of-living payment, you must be receiving one of the following eligible government support payments:
- Age Pension
- Disability Support Pension
- Carer Payment
- JobSeeker Payment
- Parenting Payment
- Youth Allowance
- Austudy
- Veterans’ Affairs payments
- Pensioner Concession Card holders
Additionally, you must:
- Be residing in Australia as of March 31, 2025
- Have your bank details and personal info updated in your myGov or Centrelink account
There is no need to apply – the payment will be automatically deposited into eligible recipients’ bank accounts.
Payment Schedule and Method
The $497 payment will be sent out between April 15 and April 30, 2025, depending on your usual Centrelink payment cycle.
Funds will be transferred directly to your nominated bank account, so it’s important to verify that your banking details are accurate before April 10, 2025.
Payment Breakdown
Here’s a look at how this one-time $497 bonus will stack with existing benefits:
| Payment Type | Fortnightly Amount (Single) | One-Off $497 Payment | Total in April 2025 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Age Pension | $1,149.00 | $497 | $1,646.00 |
| Disability Support Pension | $1,149.00 | $497 | $1,646.00 |
| Carer Payment | $1,149.00 | $497 | $1,646.00 |
| JobSeeker Payment | $789.90 | $497 | $1,286.90 |
| Parenting Payment | $1,030.30 | $497 | $1,527.30 |
| Youth Allowance (18+, at home) | $477.10 | $497 | $974.10 |
| Austudy | $602.80 | $497 | $1,099.80 |
Note: These amounts reflect rates for single individuals. Different rates apply to couples and those with dependents.
How to Make Sure You Receive the Relief Payment
To ensure you receive your $497 bonus without delay:
- Log in to myGov and confirm your banking details
- Check your Centrelink payment history
- Make sure your personal information is current
- Watch for the payment during your normal April payment cycle
Remember, you do not need to apply – if you’re eligible, the payment will be made automatically.
Other Relief Measures
This $497 payment comes alongside other government support initiatives aimed at helping Australians through rising costs:
- Higher Commonwealth Rent Assistance
- Energy Bill Rebates for eligible households
- Education support bonuses for families with school-aged children
- Increased income-free thresholds for some benefits
These measures are part of broader economic relief strategies to ease financial stress across the country.
The $497 Cost of Living Relief Payment is a significant boost for millions of Australians. Whether you’re on a pension, receiving youth allowance, or a job seeker navigating a tight budget, this payment offers real help.
If you meet the criteria, all you need to do is make sure your myGov details are up to date – and you’re set to receive your payment in April 2025.
Stay alert, check your inbox and bank account, and take full advantage of this timely financial support!
FAQs
Is the $497 payment taxable?
No, this payment is non-taxable and won’t affect your regular benefit amount or other income.
Do I need to apply for this payment?
No. If you’re eligible, the payment will be automatically deposited into your account.
What happens if my bank account details are incorrect?
You may face delays. Make sure your details are updated via myGov before April 10, 2025.