In April 2025, the Australian Government continues to provide financial assistance through the JobSeeker Payment to support individuals who are unemployed or unable to work due to illness or injury.
Eligible recipients can receive up to $1,030 per fortnight, depending on their personal circumstances.
Additionally, a one-off $400 cost-of-living bonus has been announced to help alleviate financial pressures.
Eligibility Criteria for JobSeeker Payment
To qualify for the JobSeeker Payment in April 2025, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Age Requirement: Between 22 years and Age Pension age.
- Employment Status: Unemployed, underemployed, or temporarily unable to work due to illness or injury.
- Residency: Australian citizen, permanent resident, or holder of an eligible visa.
- Income and Assets Test: Must pass the income and assets tests.
- Mutual Obligations: Agree to participate in activities such as job searches, training, or volunteering.
Applicants are also required to report their income every fortnight through their myGov account or the Express Plus Centrelink app.
Payment Rates as of April 2025
The JobSeeker Payment rates vary based on individual circumstances:
- Single, no children: $781.10 per fortnight.
- Single, with dependent child: $836.50 per fortnight.
- Single, aged 55+, unemployed for 9+ months: $836.50 per fortnight.
- Partnered person: $715.10 per fortnight.
- Single Principal Carer (specific exemptions apply): Up to $1,011.50 per fortnight.
These amounts may be supplemented with additional benefits such as Rent Assistance, Pharmaceutical Allowance, and the Energy Supplement.
$400 One-Off Cost-of-Living Bonus
To assist with rising living costs, the government has introduced a one-time $400 bonus for eligible JobSeeker recipients.
To qualify, individuals must have been receiving the JobSeeker Payment as of March 31, 2025. This bonus will be automatically deposited into recipients’ bank accounts between April 15 and April 30, 2025, with no additional application required.
Application Process for JobSeeker Payment
Applying for the JobSeeker Payment involves the following steps:
- Link Centrelink to myGov: Create or sign in to a myGov account and link it to Centrelink using your Customer Reference Number (CRN).
- Start Your Claim: Navigate to “Payments and Claims” and select “JobSeeker Payment.”
- Provide Supporting Documents: Submit necessary documents such as identification, medical certificates, payslips, or rent agreements.
- Track and Await Approval: Claims are typically processed within 21 days. Updates will be sent to your myGov inbox.
Maintaining Eligibility
To continue receiving the JobSeeker Payment, recipients must:
- Report Income: Update income details every fortnight.
- Fulfill Mutual Obligations: Participate in agreed-upon activities such as job searches or training.
- Notify Centrelink of Changes: Inform Centrelink of any changes in circumstances, including relationship status, address, or employment.
Failure to meet these obligations may result in delayed payments, reduced rates, or suspension of benefits.
Additional Support Available
Beyond the base JobSeeker rate, eligible individuals may receive additional support:
- Rent Assistance: Up to $188.20 per fortnight for those renting privately.
- Energy Supplement: Automatically included to help with utility bills.
- Pharmaceutical Allowance: Assists with the cost of medications for those on certain health treatments.
- Remote Area Allowance: Additional support for individuals living in remote or regional Australia.
The JobSeeker Payment, along with the additional $400 bonus in April 2025, provides crucial financial support to Australians navigating unemployment or temporary work incapacity.
Staying informed about eligibility criteria, payment details, and obligations ensures that recipients can effectively manage their finances during this period.
FAQs
Do I need to apply separately for the $400 bonus?
No, the $400 bonus will be automatically deposited into the bank accounts of eligible recipients between April 15 and April 30, 2025.
Will the $400 bonus affect my regular Centrelink payments or tax obligations?
No, the $400 is a non-taxable, one-off payment and will not impact your ongoing Centrelink benefits.
What should I do if I don’t receive the $400 bonus by April 30, 2025?
First, check your bank and myGov account. If the bonus hasn’t arrived, contact Centrelink to verify your payment status.