Starting March 20, 2025, over five million Australians will see an increase in their social security payments, aiming to alleviate cost-of-living pressures.
Details of Payment Increases
The biannual indexation will adjust various welfare payments as follows:
| Payment Type | Previous Fortnightly Rate | Increase | New Fortnightly Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| Age Pension (Single) | $1,144.40 | $4.60 | $1,149.00 |
| Age Pension (Couple, each) | $862.60 | $3.50 | $866.10 |
| Parenting Payment (Single) | $1,026.30 | $4.00 | $1,030.30 |
| JobSeeker (Single, no children) | $786.80 | $3.10 | $789.90 |
Note: Rates include supplements such as the Energy Supplement.
Impact Over the Past Three Years
Since the Labor government took office, cumulative indexation adjustments have resulted in significant annual increases for recipients:
- Single Pensioners: An additional $3,913 per year.
- Pensioner Couples: A combined increase of $5,902 per year.
- JobSeeker Recipients: An annual boost between $3,374 and $5,038.
- Single Parents: Primarily women, receiving at least $7,579 more annually.
Social Services Minister Amanda Rishworth emphasized the government’s commitment to strengthening the social security system, stating that these increases “will help ease some pressure” for many Australians.
Government Investment in Social Security
The Albanese Labor Government has allocated approximately $11.5 billion to enhance the nation’s social safety net across the 2023/24 and 2024/25 federal budgets.
This investment underscores the government’s dedication to supporting vulnerable populations and addressing cost-of-living challenges.
The upcoming welfare payment increases, effective March 20, 2025, will provide financial relief to over five million Australians.
With significant boosts for pensioners, JobSeeker recipients, and single parents, the government aims to ease cost-of-living pressures.
These adjustments reflect ongoing commitments to strengthening social security and supporting vulnerable communities nationwide.
FAQs
When will the increased payments take effect?
The new payment rates will be effective from March 20, 2025.
Do recipients need to apply for the increased payments?
No, the increases will be automatically applied to eligible recipients’ payments.
Where can I find more information about the payment increases?
Detailed information, including income and asset limits, is available on the Department of Social Services website.
