In a welcome move for renters across the country, the Australian Government has implemented a 10% increase in Commonwealth Rent Assistance (CRA) starting in early 2025.
This additional financial support aims to help low-income Australians manage the mounting cost of housing, especially in the private rental market where affordability continues to decline.
If you’re receiving government support and paying rent, this extra cash boost might be coming your way—no application required for existing recipients.
What Is Commonwealth Rent Assistance?
Commonwealth Rent Assistance (CRA) is a non-taxable government supplement paid to eligible Australians who rent privately or live in community housing. It’s added to your income support payment—such as the Age Pension or JobSeeker Payment—to help cover your rental expenses.
CRA is not available if you’re living in public (government) housing. It’s designed specifically for those in the private rental sector or community-managed housing.
What’s Changing in 2025?
As of 2025, the Australian Government has applied a 10% increase to the maximum CRA payment rates, putting more money in the pockets of eligible renters.
This is part of a broader strategy to address rental stress and rising living costs. While rental prices have surged over the past year, this adjustment ensures that CRA continues to deliver meaningful support.
What does the boost mean?
- A single renter with no children could see up to $23 more per fortnight.
- Couples with children could receive nearly $21 extra per fortnight.
Who’s Eligible for the 10% CRA Boost in 2025?
You may be eligible for the increased CRA payments if you:
- Receive a qualifying Centrelink payment, such as:
- Age Pension
- Disability Support Pension
- JobSeeker Payment
- Carer Payment
- Youth Allowance
- Austudy or ABSTUDY
- Parenting Payment
- Special Benefit
- Pay rent above the minimum threshold:
- Singles must pay more than $149.60 per fortnight
- Couples must pay more than $242.40 combined per fortnight
- Rent privately or through a community housing provider
If these conditions apply to you, and you’re already getting CRA, you will automatically receive the increased payment—there’s no need to reapply.
Updated CRA Payment (Effective 2025)
| Household Type | Previous Max (Fortnightly) | New Max (Fortnightly) |
|---|---|---|
| Single, no children | $189.20 | $212.00 |
| Single, with children | $222.40 | $244.64 |
| Couple, combined, no children | $178.00 | $199.80 |
| Couple, combined, with children | $211.20 | $232.32 |
These updated figures reflect the 10% boost designed to help keep up with rental inflation in 2025.
How to Apply or Update Your Rent Info
If you’re already receiving CRA, the new rate will be applied automatically to your payment. For new applicants or if your rent has changed, follow these steps:
- Log in to your MyGov account linked to Centrelink.
- Update your rent details with a current rental agreement or rent receipt.
- Submit your claim or update and monitor the changes through your Centrelink account.
Remember: rent changes must be reported promptly to ensure accurate CRA payments.
Why This Matters in 2025
With housing affordability reaching critical levels in many cities and regional areas, this 10% rent assistance boost is more than symbolic—it can provide hundreds of dollars in extra support per year.
Whether you’re a single pensioner, a student in shared housing, or a family juggling bills, this increase helps reduce pressure on your budget and puts you in a stronger position to manage rising living costs.
The 2025 Rent Assistance boost is a vital relief measure designed to help Australians facing increased rental stress. With rent prices continuing to climb, this 10% CRA increase can provide the financial breathing room that so many households need.
If you’re eligible, this extra cash is a step toward stability—make sure your rent details are up to date and enjoy the benefit without lifting a finger.
FAQs
Who qualifies for the rent assistance increase in 2025?
Anyone receiving a qualifying Centrelink payment and paying rent above the set threshold in private or community housing is eligible.
Will the increased amount be paid automatically?
Yes, if you’re currently receiving CRA, the increased payment will be included automatically starting early 2025.
How much more will I receive?
Depending on your situation, you could receive up to $23 extra per fortnight if you’re single, or more if you’re a couple or have children.