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In 2025, a new round of financial assistance has been rolled out by Centrelink in the form of a $670.30 special payment. This initiative aims to support Australians who are experiencing sudden financial hardship but don’t qualify for regular income support payments.
The Centrelink Special Benefit is designed to act as a safety net for individuals and families with no other options for financial assistance. This guide breaks down everything you need to know about the $670.30 payment, including eligibility, payment amounts, application steps, and more.
What Is the $670.30 Special Payment?
The $670.30 Centrelink Special Payment is a fortnightly financial assistance measure that provides support for Australians in dire financial situations. Unlike other welfare payments, this benefit is only available to people who are not eligible for any other Centrelink payments such as JobSeeker, Age Pension, or Youth Allowance.
The payment serves as a temporary support measure and is calculated based on the recipient’s living situation, income, and assets. In 2025, the maximum rate for a single individual living independently is $670.30 per fortnight.
Eligibility Criteria
To receive the $670.30 Centrelink Special Payment, applicants must meet strict eligibility guidelines. These are designed to ensure the payment only goes to individuals in genuine financial distress.
Key Eligibility Requirements:
- Must be living in Australia with approved residency or visa status.
- Must be ineligible for any other Centrelink income support payments.
- Must show they are unable to earn sufficient income to support themselves.
- Must pass an income and assets test, confirming they are in financial hardship.
- Must not have access to adequate financial support from family or community sources.
This payment is especially useful for those affected by sudden job loss, relationship breakdown, domestic violence, or other unexpected life changes.
How Much Will You Receive?
The amount paid varies based on individual circumstances. However, Centrelink has outlined maximum payment rates for different recipient categories in 2025:
Centrelink Special Payment Rate Table (Fortnightly)
| Recipient Category | Fortnightly Rate |
|---|---|
| Single, living at home | $477.10 |
| Single, living away from home | $670.30 |
| Single, with dependent children | $845.80 |
| Couple, no children (combined) | $670.30 |
| Couple, with dependent children | $718.10 |
These amounts are assessed based on your personal situation, and the exact payment may be lower if you have some income or assets.
How to Apply for the $670.30 Special Payment
Unlike standard welfare benefits, applying for the Special Benefit involves a more detailed process. Here’s how to get started:
Steps to Apply:
- Check Your Eligibility: Review the criteria to ensure you’re not eligible for any other payment.
- Gather Documentation: Include identification, income and assets details, rent agreements, and utility bills.
- Apply Online or In-Person:
- Log into your myGov account linked to Centrelink.
- Or, visit a Centrelink Service Centre for help applying.
- Wait for Assessment: Once submitted, Centrelink will evaluate your claim and notify you of approval.
When Will You Be Paid?
If approved, the payment will start from the date of your claim. Payments are made every fortnight and are backdated to when your application was first lodged — not when it was approved.
Note: The payment is temporary and reviewed regularly. Centrelink will continue to assess your eligibility to determine if you still qualify.
Does This Payment Affect Tax or Other Benefits?
- The Centrelink Special Payment is considered taxable income.
- It does not affect Medicare eligibility or other healthcare benefits.
- You must report this income in your tax return if you’re lodging for the financial year.
It’s also essential to report any changes in income, assets, or living arrangements to Centrelink as they could impact your eligibility.
What Can You Use the $670.30 For?
Here are some of the most common uses for the special benefit:
- Rent and utility bills
- Groceries and essentials
- Transport or medical costs
- Emergency repairs or childcare expenses
This payment is meant to cover basic living expenses and prevent recipients from falling into deeper hardship.
The $670.30 Centrelink Special Payment is a vital safety net for Australians who find themselves in financial crisis without access to other support. By offering a consistent, temporary income stream, this payment can help keep people afloat during difficult times.
If you or someone you know is struggling and meets the strict criteria, now is the time to apply and secure the support you need.
Be proactive — ensure your details are accurate in myGov, gather the right documentation, and apply without delay to access this essential support.
FAQs
Can I get this payment if I already receive JobSeeker or Youth Allowance?
No. This special payment is only for individuals not eligible for any other Centrelink income support.
Is the $670.30 a one-time payment or ongoing?
It’s an ongoing fortnightly payment, but it’s subject to regular review. You must continue to meet eligibility requirements.
How quickly will I receive the payment after applying?
If approved, payments are typically processed within 1–2 weeks and may be backdated to your application date.