In response to the financial challenges faced by many Australians, Centrelink has introduced a $1,200 Hardship Boost to provide immediate relief for essential expenses such as food, utilities, and housing.
This one-time payment aims to support individuals and families experiencing severe financial hardship.
Eligibility Criteria for the $1,200 Hardship Boost
To qualify for the $1,200 Hardship Boost, applicants must meet specific criteria:
1. Income Support Recipient
Must be receiving an income support payment from Centrelink or the ABSTUDY Living Allowance. Eligible payments include JobSeeker Payment, Youth Allowance, Disability Support Pension, Age Pension, Parenting Payment, and ABSTUDY Living Allowance.
2. Severe Financial Hardship
Applicants must demonstrate significant financial hardship, such as difficulty paying for essential expenses.
3. Extreme Circumstances
Must have been forced to leave home due to extreme circumstances like domestic violence, natural disasters, or other crises, making it unreasonable to return home in the near future.
4. Residency Requirement
Applicants must have been in Australia when the extreme circumstance occurred and when submitting the claim.
5. Establishing a New Home
Intend to establish or have established a new home after the extreme circumstance.
Application Process for the $1,200 Hardship Boost
Eligible individuals can apply for the Hardship Boost through the following steps:
- Timing: Applications must be made within seven days of the extreme circumstance occurring or release from confinement. Late applications may be rejected, so it’s essential to act promptly.
- Application Methods:
- Online: Through the Centrelink account linked to myGov. This is the fastest and most convenient method.
- In-Person: Visit a Centrelink service centre with all required documents.
- Phone: Call the Centrelink Employment Services line or the Disability, Sickness, and Carers line.
- Required Documentation:
- Proof of Identity: Government-issued ID (e.g., driver’s license or passport).
- Proof of Extreme Circumstance: Police report, medical certificate, eviction notice, or a statement from a social worker.
- Financial Information: Bank statements showing current financial situation.
- Residency Proof: If applicable, proof of residence status in Australia.
- Approval and Payment: Once approved, the payment is usually deposited directly into the applicant’s bank account within a few days. It is a one-off payment and is non-taxable, meaning it will not affect other Centrelink payments or benefits.
Key Features of the Hardship Boost
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Payment Amount | Up to $1,200, depending on individual circumstances and income support eligibility. |
| Purpose | To assist Australians facing severe financial hardship due to extreme circumstances such as domestic violence, natural disasters, or release from confinement. |
| Eligibility Criteria | Must be receiving income support from Centrelink or ABSTUDY Living Allowance, experiencing severe financial hardship, and have faced an extreme circumstance. |
| Application Deadline | Must apply within seven days of the extreme circumstance occurring or release from confinement. |
| Approval Speed | Typically processed within a few days, with funds disbursed directly to the applicant’s bank account. |
| Official Website | Services Australia – Crisis Payment |
Centrelink’s $1,200 Hardship Boost is a vital support measure for Australians facing severe financial hardship due to extreme circumstances.
Eligible individuals should act promptly and ensure all necessary documentation is provided to receive this assistance.
FAQs
Will the $1,200 Hardship Boost affect my other Centrelink payments?
No, the Hardship Boost is a non-taxable, one-off payment and does not affect other Centrelink payments or benefits.
Can I apply for the Hardship Boost if I haven’t left my home but am still in financial hardship?
No, eligibility requires that you have been forced to leave your home due to extreme circumstances and are establishing a new home.
What if I miss the seven-day application window?
Late applications may be rejected. It’s crucial to apply within seven days of the extreme circumstance occurring or release from confinement.
One thought on “Centrelink’s $1,200 Hardship Boost – Eligibility Criteria And Application Process”
Thank you for information. Iam one those in hardship for period since 2018 till now I have so many bills over due because iam not working. When I got enjoyed I been unable to work. Just that server procture on my left ankle and right front ripe is broken as well my lowe back is damage too.