Australia April $280 Centrelink Rent Assistance 2025: Who Qualifies and When Payments Start

With living costs and rental prices rising rapidly, the Australian government has increased Centrelink Rent Assistance rates starting from April 2025. Eligible individuals and families may now receive up to $280.42 per fortnight to help ease housing pressures.

More than 1.4 million Australians are expected to benefit from this boost. If you rely on Centrelink support and pay rent, this guide will help you understand the new rates, eligibility rules, and how to make sure you’re receiving the full amount you’re entitled to.

What Is Commonwealth Rent Assistance

Commonwealth Rent Assistance (CRA) is a supplementary Centrelink payment for people who rent in the private market or in community housing. It is not a standalone benefit but is paid in addition to your main Centrelink payment, such as the Age Pension or JobSeeker.

The aim of CRA is to reduce rental stress for low-income Australians and provide consistent housing support in line with inflation and rental market trends.

Why Centrelink Rent Assistance Increased in April 2025

The April 2025 increase was driven by Consumer Price Index (CPI) adjustments, along with mounting pressure from advocacy groups demanding greater housing support. The government adjusted both:

• Maximum rent assistance amounts

• Minimum rent thresholds

This ensures that rent assistance continues to reflect current rental market conditions, particularly in high-demand areas like Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane.

Eligibility Criteria for April 2025 Rent Assistance

To receive CRA, you must meet three key conditions:

• Receive a qualifying Centrelink payment

• Pay rent or rent-like costs

• Pay above the minimum rent threshold

Let’s break them down further.

Eligible Centrelink Payments

You must already be receiving one of the following payments:

• Age Pension

• Disability Support Pension

• JobSeeker Payment

• Youth Allowance or Austudy

• Carer Payment

• Parenting Payment

• Family Tax Benefit Part A (above base rate)

• Special Benefit

• ABSTUDY

Acceptable Rental Arrangements

Your rent payments must go toward one of the following:

• Private rental agreements

• Community or public housing

• Boarding and lodging

• Site or mooring fees for mobile homes, caravans, or boats

April 2025 Rent Thresholds and Maximum CRA Payments

Here’s a table with updated CRA amounts effective April 2025:

Note: These figures are revised every March and September.

How to Receive CRA Automatically

You do not need to apply for CRA separately. If you’re already getting an eligible payment and paying rent:

• Your CRA will be added automatically

• You must have your rental information up-to-date with Centrelink

Updating Rental Details with Centrelink

To ensure timely payments, use one of the following methods to update your rent:

• Log into myGov and update via your Centrelink account

• Use the Centrelink Express mobile app

• Call or visit a Services Australia office

Make sure to have documents like your lease agreement, rent receipts, or a rent certificate ready.

When Will the $280 Payments Begin

The updated Centrelink Rent Assistance rates are effective from April 1, 2025. Payments will follow your usual Centrelink schedule (typically every fortnight). Those eligible will automatically see the increase reflected in their April payment cycle.

Tips to Maximize Your CRA Benefit

Here are a few practical steps you can take:

• Use the Rent Assistance Estimator on the Services Australia website

• Keep your rent documents current and submit them promptly

• Notify Centrelink immediately if your rent amount changes

• Ensure your Centrelink records reflect accurate living arrangements

• Check your myGov account to confirm payment breakdowns

FAQs

Who is eligible for the $280 Rent Assistance in April 2025?

Any Australian receiving an eligible Centrelink payment and paying rent above the set threshold may qualify for up to $280.42 in CRA.

Do I need to apply separately for rent assistance?

No, if you’re receiving an eligible payment and your rent details are up-to-date, CRA will be applied automatically.

Is CRA paid separately from my main Centrelink benefit?

No, it’s added to your main payment and paid together every fortnight.

What if I move to a new rental property?

You must report the new rental amount and address immediately through myGov or by contacting Centrelink to continue receiving CRA.

Can students receive Rent Assistance?

Yes, students receiving Youth Allowance, Austudy, or ABSTUDY and paying rent are eligible if they meet all conditions.

How often is Rent Assistance updated?

The CRA payment rates and thresholds are adjusted twice a year—in March and September—to reflect inflation and housing costs.

Will I still receive CRA if I live in public housing?

Yes, CRA may apply to certain public or community housing situations, depending on the rent paid and your eligibility status.

Click here to know more.