To help citizens manage the growing cost of living, the Australian Government has launched a $497 one-time Cost of Living Relief Payment for eligible Australians. This financial assistance is aimed at Centrelink recipients and concession card holders, offering immediate support as inflation continues to impact essentials like food, rent, and electricity.
Here’s a full guide to check your eligibility, understand the payment method, and explore other related support programs.
What Is the $497 Cost of Living Relief Australia Payment?
Introduced in March 2025, the $497 relief payment is part of a national initiative to provide short-term economic support during a period of elevated living costs. It is automatically paid through Centrelink, meaning no formal application is required for most eligible Australians.
| Topic | Details |
|---|---|
| Payment Amount | $497 (one-time, tax-free) |
| Eligibility | Centrelink recipients, concession card holders |
| Distribution Method | Automatic via Services Australia |
| Start Date | March 2025 |
| Residency Requirement | Must be living in Australia |
| Official Site | servicesaustralia.gov.au |
Why the $497 Payment Matters in 2025
With the cost of living rising by 4.1% in 2024, the financial strain on low-income and fixed-income households has intensified. This payment offers timely relief for over one million Australians, helping them manage basic necessities like medication, school expenses, and energy bills.
For many, this payment is not just about money—it’s about maintaining dignity and security in daily life.
Who Is Eligible for the $497 Cost of Living Relief?
You must be either a Centrelink recipient or a concession card holder, and a resident of Australia during the payment window.
Centrelink Recipients Include:
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Age Pension
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Disability Support Pension
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Carer Payment
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JobSeeker Payment
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Parenting Payment
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Youth Allowance
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Austudy or Abstudy (if income-eligible)
Eligible Concession Cards:
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Pensioner Concession Card
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Commonwealth Seniors Health Card
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Low-Income Health Care Card
How to Receive the $497 Payment
The process is straightforward and requires no manual application:
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Log in to myGov
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Make sure your Centrelink account is linked.
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Check Your Details
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Ensure your banking and contact info is current.
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Wait for Deposit
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Most payments were issued within 2-3 weeks of rollout starting in March 2025.
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What If You Didn’t Receive the Payment?
If you haven’t received your payment by April 15, 2025, take action by:
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Logging into myGov
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Calling the Centrelink Helpline
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Visiting a local Services Australia office
Alternative Support If You’re Not Eligible
If you don’t qualify for the $497 relief payment, there are other programs that might help:
1. Energy Rebates
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Up to $500/year for concession card holders via state government programs.
2. Rent Assistance
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Up to $193.62 per fortnight for eligible renters receiving Centrelink.
3. PBS Concessions
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Pensioners pay just $7.70 per script under the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme.
4. HECS-HELP Discount
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20% discount on student loans and repayment threshold raised to $67,000 in 2025.
5. State Programs
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NSW: Energy rebates, Active Kids Vouchers
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VIC: Power Saving Bonus, Public transport discounts
Who Benefits Most From This Payment?
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Seniors: Can use it for healthcare and energy bills.
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Parents: Helps cover food, school supplies, and rent.
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Unemployed Individuals: Offers short-term support while job hunting.
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Students: Useful for books, tech, or part-time travel costs.
Stay Updated on Government Support
To ensure you don’t miss future payments:
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Sign up for email and SMS alerts via Centrelink
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Visit the Cost of Living Hub on Services Australia’s website
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Follow official social media handles
FAQs
Do I need to apply for the $497 payment?
No, the payment is automatically issued to eligible individuals.
Is this payment taxable or a loan?
No, it’s tax-free and non-repayable.
Will it affect other Centrelink benefits?
No, it won’t reduce or alter your existing payments.
Can both spouses receive it?
Yes, if both are eligible individually, both will receive it.
What if my payment didn’t arrive?
Check myGov messages and contact Centrelink if needed.
Do self-funded retirees qualify?
Only if they hold a Commonwealth Seniors Health Card.
Final Thought
The $497 Cost of Living Relief Australia 2025 is a crucial step in helping Australians face rising costs with confidence. Whether you’re a pensioner, student, or job seeker, this one-time payment can provide valuable breathing space as you manage your household budget.
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Aanchal is a passionate writer with a keen interest in storytelling, content creation, and creative expression. She enjoys exploring diverse topics and crafting engaging narratives that captivate readers.