The Australian government has confirmed a $950 Centrelink Cost-of-Living (COLA) Boost arriving on 10 November 2025. This one-off payment aims to deliver immediate financial relief to millions of Australians struggling with the rising cost of living. The payment will automatically be issued to eligible households receiving Centrelink benefits, helping them cover essential goods and services such as groceries, utilities, and healthcare expenses. Here’s a detailed breakdown of who qualifies, how the payment works, and what beneficiaries can expect.
Centrelink’s $950 Boost for Australian Households
As part of the government’s economic relief measures, the $950 Cost-of-Living Boost will be distributed to qualifying Centrelink recipients, including those on the Age Pension, Disability Support Pension, and Family Tax Benefit. The payment will be made directly to eligible Australians without requiring any new application. Deposits will appear in recipients’ accounts on Sunday, 10 November 2025. This initiative reinforces the government’s commitment to supporting low- and middle-income citizens facing ongoing inflation pressures.
Eligibility for the $950 Cost-of-Living Payment
Eligibility for the one-off payment depends on existing Centrelink benefit status, income thresholds, and residency conditions. To qualify, individuals must:
- Be an Australian citizen or permanent resident residing in Australia.
- Be receiving an eligible Centrelink payment as of November 2025 (Age Pension, Disability Support Pension, Family Tax Benefit, Parenting Payment, or Carer Payment).
- Meet income and asset test requirements as determined by Services Australia.
Families, carers, and senior citizens experiencing financial hardship will benefit most from this assistance. Centrelink will automatically notify all eligible recipients about the payment via their online accounts and official correspondence.
Centrelink COLA Boost Overview – November 2025
| Payment Amount | Eligible Benefits | Payment Date | Eligibility Criteria |
|---|---|---|---|
| $950 | Age Pension, Disability Support Pension, Family Tax Benefit | 10 November 2025 | Income and asset tests apply |
| $950 | Parenting Payment, Carer Payment | 10 November 2025 | Must be Australian resident |
| $950 | Other Centrelink payments | 10 November 2025 | Must meet age and residency conditions |
How Australians Will Receive the $950 Payment
Eligible Australians do not need to apply for the Centrelink Cost-of-Living Boost. The payment will be automatically processed through Services Australia using existing Centrelink records. Recipients who already receive regular benefits will see the additional $950 deposited into their nominated bank accounts on 10 November 2025. Those who believe they qualify but do not receive the payment should check their Centrelink online account or contact Services Australia for clarification.
Why the $950 Boost Matters for Senior Australians
For senior citizens and retirees, the $950 payment represents much-needed relief amid rising living expenses. Increased costs of healthcare, energy, and basic goods have disproportionately impacted older Australians. This boost will help seniors maintain financial stability and meet essential living costs. The initiative complements other welfare adjustments and demonstrates the government’s ongoing efforts to safeguard the wellbeing of Australia’s most vulnerable citizens.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Who is eligible for the $950 Centrelink payment?
Eligibility includes recipients of the Age Pension, Disability Support Pension, Family Tax Benefit, Parenting Payment, or Carer Payment who meet income and asset criteria.
2. When will the $950 payment be made?
The payment will be automatically deposited into eligible accounts on 10 November 2025.
3. Do I need to apply for the payment?
No application is required. The payment will be made automatically based on your existing Centrelink eligibility.
4. Can non-seniors receive the payment?
Yes. In addition to seniors, recipients of Family Tax Benefit, Carer Payment, and other eligible Centrelink programs will also receive the $950 boost.
