Recent changes to Centrelink

Centrelink payment Rates

Recently, if you are in receipt of a Centrelink entitlement you would have received a letter from the Department of Human Services. This letter was in relation to the new maximum Age Pension rates.

Prior to 20 March 2019 the maximum Age Pension was $916.30 per fortnight for singles (or if on separated by illness rates) and $690.70 pf each for couples.

This has now increased to $926.20 pf and to $698.10 pf each for couples. The full Centrelink Age Pension is $24,081 annually for singles and $36,301 for couples (combined).

One off Energy assistance payment

The Government has also announced a one-off payment to all Age Pension recipients residing in Australia as at 2 April 2019. This payment is $75 for singles and $62.50 for each member of a couple. Payments should be received before 30 June 2019.

Work Bonus

From July 1 2019, if you supplement your Centrelink income by working, your work bonus will increase from $250 to $300 pf. The maximum accrual limit will also increase to $7,800 (from the previous limit of $6,500). This is an overall increase of $1,300 pa that can be earned without affecting your Centrelink entitlement.