Farming in Australia is a rewarding but challenging lifestyle. From unpredictable droughts and floods to fluctuating crop and livestock prices, many farming families face financial stress. To provide relief, the Australian Government offers the Farm Household Allowance (FHA) through Centrelink.
From 20 September 2025, eligible farmers may receive up to $663.30 per fortnight. This payment helps farming households cover essential expenses while planning long-term financial stability.
In this guide, we’ll cover who is eligible, payment amounts, income and asset limits, payment dates, and how to apply for FHA.
What is the Farm Household Allowance (FHA)?
The Farm Household Allowance is a Centrelink welfare payment designed to support farmers and their partners during times of financial hardship.
Unlike loans, FHA does not need to be repaid. It provides temporary relief for living costs while farmers work on making their businesses more sustainable.
Support is available for up to 4 years within a 10-year period.
Payments are made every fortnight.
Farmers also receive access to financial advice, planning services, and support programs.
Farm Household Allowance September 2025 Payment Rate
From September 2025, eligible farmers will continue to receive up to $663.30 per fortnight. This is similar to the JobSeeker Payment but tailored for farming families.
| Farmer Situation | Fortnightly Payment |
|---|---|
| Single farmer | $663.30 |
| Partnered (each) | Varies (based on partner’s income) |
| Exempt from obligations | May receive higher rates |
Tip: Partnered farmers should always check income rules, as partner earnings can reduce payments.
Who Can Receive the FHA?
The allowance is designed for farmers and farm partners who are struggling financially due to fluctuations in farm income.
You may qualify if you are:
- An Australian resident, 16 years or older.
- Actively working on or contributing to a commercial farm (not a hobby farm).
- Experiencing financial hardship.
- Have not received FHA for more than 4 years in the last 10 years.
Partners can also apply if they provide labour or capital for the farm business.
FHA 2025 Income and Asset Limits
To ensure support goes to those who need it most, strict income and asset rules apply.
Income Test (Fortnightly Limits)
| Situation | Maximum Income Allowed |
|---|---|
| Single, no child | $1,484.17 |
| Single, aged 55+, 9+ months on payment | $1,589.00 |
| Single with child under 16 | $1,577.67 |
| Principal carer with child, no obligations | $2,725.75 |
| Partnered | $1,372.67 (partner’s income counted) |
Asset Test
- Total combined farm and personal assets must be below $5.5 million.
- This includes farmland, machinery, livestock, savings, and investments.
Payment Schedule – When Will You Be Paid?
Centrelink pays FHA every two weeks. From September 2025, payments will adjust in line with other welfare benefits like JobSeeker and Youth Allowance.
Farmers can confirm their exact payment dates through their myGov account linked with Centrelink.
How Long Can You Receive FHA?
- Maximum of 4 years within a 10-year period.
- The 4 years don’t need to be taken all at once – they can be spread across different hardship periods.
How to Apply for the Farm Household Allowance
Applying for FHA is simple and can be done in three ways:
- Online – via myGov linked to Centrelink.
- Phone – call the Farmer Assistance Hotline.
- In person – visit a Services Australia office.
Documents You’ll Need:
- Proof of identity
- Farm ownership and business details
- Income and asset statements
- Partner’s income details (if relevant)
FAQs – Farm Household Allowance 2025
Q1. How much is the FHA in September 2025?
The payment is $663.30 per fortnight for eligible single farmers. Partnered farmers may receive less depending on their partner’s income.
Q2. Can farm partners also apply?
Yes, partners can apply if they contribute to the farm through labour or capital.
Q3. How long can I receive FHA?
You can receive it for up to 4 years in any 10-year period.
Q4. What if my assets are above $5.5 million?
Unfortunately, you will not qualify if your total assets exceed the limit.
Q5. How do I check my FHA payment dates?
Log in to your myGov account linked with Centrelink to view upcoming payments.
Final Thoughts
The $663 Centrelink Farm Household Allowance in September 2025 is more than just a payment – it’s a lifeline for farming families in financial distress. While it won’t solve all challenges, it provides crucial breathing space so farmers can plan for the future.