The 2025 Federal Budget has landed, and with it, disappointment for millions of Australians relying on JobSeeker and Age Pension payments. Despite growing inflation and the rising cost of living, the government has denied a significant cash boost to those who arguably need it the most.
The response has been swift, with advocacy groups and everyday Australians voicing frustration over what many see as an opportunity missed.
Cost-of-Living Pressures Mount
Australians on JobSeeker and Age Pension were hoping for relief amid skyrocketing housing costs, expensive groceries, and rising utility bills. Instead, they’ve been given what critics are calling “token increases.”
Here’s a breakdown of the latest payment adjustments:
| Payment Type | Previous Amount (per fortnight) | Increase | New Amount (per fortnight) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Age Pension (Single) | $1,144.40 | $4.60 | $1,149.00 |
| Age Pension (Couple, each) | $862.60 | $3.50 | $866.10 |
| JobSeeker (Single, no kids) | $786.80 | $3.10 | $789.90 |
The increases amount to just a few dollars per fortnight, which translates to only cents per day — a far cry from what’s needed to meaningfully offset the economic pressure on low-income Australians.
Pensioners and JobSeekers Left Behind
While the federal government has committed funds to other areas such as tax reform, energy rebates, and healthcare improvements, welfare recipients have once again found themselves overlooked.
Budget Highlights (Excluding Welfare):
- Tax Cuts: Starting July 1, 2026 – small savings of around $5/week for average taxpayers.
- Energy Relief: Households and small businesses to receive a $150 electricity rebate.
- Healthcare Investment: Over $8 billion in support to strengthen bulk-billing GP services.
While these measures may provide general support to Australians, they do little to directly address the immediate financial struggles of people on welfare.
Why the Backlash?
The outrage comes from the belief that the government had the fiscal space to deliver stronger support but chose not to. With the economy recovering and record tax revenues, many expected a substantial lift in base welfare rates.
Instead, the 22-cent daily increase for JobSeeker recipients feels symbolic at best. Many seniors and unemployed Australians are already dipping into savings, falling behind on rent, or skipping meals to make ends meet.
One pensioner commented, “After rent and utilities, I’m lucky to have enough for two meals a day. A few dollars more every fortnight doesn’t change anything.”
JobSeeker Struggles Worsen
For older Australians on JobSeeker, especially those in their 50s and 60s, finding employment remains a significant challenge. Discrimination, limited job opportunities, and outdated skills often make re-entry into the workforce difficult — yet the support they receive remains minimal.
Many are stuck in a loop: not enough support to live on, but also not enough opportunities to become financially independent.
The 2025 Federal Budget has left millions of Australians disappointed. JobSeeker recipients and Age Pensioners, who were counting on meaningful assistance, received little more than inflation adjustments.
With the cost of living showing no signs of slowing down, the question remains: How long can Australia’s most vulnerable wait for real change?
FAQs
How much did JobSeeker and Age Pension payments increase in the 2025 budget?
JobSeeker increased by $3.10 per fortnight for singles without children, while the Age Pension rose by $4.60 for singles and $3.50 per person for couples.
Why are people criticizing the 2025 Federal Budget?
Because the payment increases are too small to have any real impact, especially when inflation and living costs are rising sharply.
Are there any other relief measures in the budget?
Yes, the budget includes tax cuts, energy bill rebates, and healthcare investment, but these are not targeted directly at welfare recipients.