Centrelink Rent Assistance 2025 : Who is eligible for Rent Assistance
Struggling to keep up with rising rent costs? You might be eligible for Centrelink Rent Assistance in 2025, a government payment designed to help low-income Australians manage housing expenses.
What Is Rent Assistance?
Rent Assistance is a fortnightly payment provided by Centrelink to eligible Australians who already receive another government benefit and pay rent or accommodation-related fees. Whether you’re living in a private rental, community housing, or even a caravan or relocatable home, Rent Assistance can ease the financial pressure.
Who Can Get Rent Assistance in 2025?
You may qualify for Centrelink Rent Assistance if you’re paying rent and receiving one of the following government payments:
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Age Pension
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Carer Payment
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Disability Support Pension
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JobSeeker Payment
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Youth Allowance
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Austudy
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ABSTUDY Living Allowance
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Parenting Payment
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Family Tax Benefit Part A
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Special Benefit
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Farm Household Allowance
To be eligible, you must also pay:
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Rent
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Lodging or board
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Site or mooring fees (e.g., for caravans or boats)
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Retirement village fees
You may also qualify if you’re living in community housing or defence housing under specific conditions. Special rules apply to young people and those in retirement villages, so it’s important to check with Services Australia for individual eligibility.
How Much Rent Assistance Can You Get?
The amount you receive depends on how much rent you pay and your living situation.
✅ For People Without Children
| Living Situation | Minimum Rent | Max Payment (Fortnightly) | Max Rent Threshold |
|---|---|---|---|
| Single | $149 | $211.20 | $430.60 |
| Single in shared housing | $149 | $140.80 | $336.74 |
| Couple (combined) | $241.40 | $199.00 | $506.74 |
| Couple separated due to illness | $149 | $211.20 | $430.60 |
| Temporarily separated couple | $149 | $199.00 | $414.34 |
✅ For People With Dependent Children
| Situation | Minimum Rent | Max Payment (Fortnightly) | Max Rent Threshold |
|---|---|---|---|
| Single with 1–2 children | $195.58 | $248.22 | $526.54 |
| Single with 3+ children | $195.58 | $280.42 | $569.48 |
| Couple with 1–2 children | $289.24 | $248.22 | $620.20 |
| Couple with 3+ children | $289.24 | $280.42 | $663.14 |
Rent Assistance Increases in 2024–2025
Rent Assistance was increased by 10% in September 2024, following a 15% increase in 2023, bringing the total increase to 45% since May 2022. These updates happen every March and September, aligned with inflation and wage changes.
How to Apply for Rent Assistance in Australia
You don’t need to apply separately for Rent Assistance. If you claim an eligible Centrelink payment, your eligibility for Rent Assistance is assessed automatically.
You might be asked to:
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Submit a rent certificate
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Provide your tenancy agreement
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Update your details on myGov if you move or change rent
Who Isn’t Eligible for Rent Assistance?
You may not qualify for Rent Assistance if:
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You own (or are buying) your home
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You’re away from your home for under 12 months
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You live in government-subsidized aged care
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Your partner already receives Rent Assistance
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You’re renting from a public housing authority
Final Thoughts
With rent prices soaring across Australia, Centrelink Rent Assistance in 2025 is a valuable support for those doing it tough. Whether you’re single, raising a family, or living with a partner, it’s worth checking if you qualify for this financial relief.
👉 Visit Services Australia or log in to myGov to check your eligibility and update your rental details.