With rent, groceries, and bills climbing, finding a job in Australia’s tough economy can feel overwhelming. Centrelink’s JobSeeker Payment is getting a boost from September 20, 2025, with single recipients seeing up to $823.30 fortnightly and principal carers up to $1,027.70. 13 This increase helps ease financial stress while you search for work. Here’s the lowdown on rates, eligibility, and how to claim.
What Is the JobSeeker Payment?
JobSeeker, managed by Services Australia, supports unemployed Aussies aged 22 and older with fortnightly payments for essentials like food, rent, and utilities. 0 Adjusted twice yearly (March and September), the September 2025 boost aligns with rising living costs, giving recipients more breathing room to focus on job hunting or training. 12
New JobSeeker Rates for 2025
Starting September 20, 2025, payments increase based on your situation: 13
| Category | Fortnightly Increase | New Fortnightly Rate | Annual Total |
|---|---|---|---|
| Single, no child | $12.50 | $823.30 | $21,405.80 |
| Single, with child or 55+ | $13.40 | $849.90 | $22,097.40 |
| Single, principal carer | $16.20 | $1,027.70 | $26,720.20 |
| Partnered (each) | $11.40 | $726.50 | $18,889.00 |
Extras like Rent Assistance (up to $188.20) or energy supplements ($8.80–$12.10) may apply. 17
Who Qualifies for JobSeeker?
To get JobSeeker, you must meet these criteria: 0
- Age: 22 or older, up to pension age (67).
- Residency: Australian citizen or permanent resident, living in Australia.
- Employment Status: Unemployed or underemployed due to valid reasons (e.g., economic downturn, medical issues).
- Income Test: Earn under $1,484.17 fortnightly (singles, no kids) or $2,725.75 (principal carers) for full payment. 0
- Assets Test: Assets below $321,750 (single homeowner) or $482,500 (couple). 2
- Activity Requirements: Actively job search, attend interviews, or join approved training/study.
New migrants or students may qualify under specific conditions. 0
How to Apply for JobSeeker
New applicants can apply via myGov: 0
- Create or log into myGov and link Centrelink.
- Gather ID, income details (payslips, tax returns), asset records, and unemployment proof.
- Start the JobSeeker claim online, detailing your work history and reasons for unemployment.
- Submit and track your application via myGov.
Need help? Call 132 490 or visit a Centrelink office. Current recipients get the boost automatically—no reapplication needed. 12
How Payments Work
Payments hit your bank fortnightly, starting September 20, 2025, for eligible recipients. 0 Check schedules via myGov or the Express Plus Centrelink app. Payments are taxable, but low-income earners often qualify for tax offsets. 0
Why This Increase Matters
The $12.50–$16.20 fortnightly boost adds $325–$421 yearly, helping cover rising costs for rent or groceries. 13 It frees up energy for job searches or training, supporting long-term workforce re-entry. Part of 2025’s broader relief, it aligns with pension and family payment hikes. 12
Avoid Scams
Only trust Services Australia for updates. Fake sites or social media may request your myGov details—steer clear. 6 Verify rates at servicesaustralia.gov.au or via myGov.
FAQs
When does the JobSeeker increase start?
September 20, 2025, valid until March 2026. 12
How much is the new JobSeeker rate?
Up to $823.30 for singles, $1,027.70 for principal carers, fortnightly. 13
Do I need to reapply for the boost?
No, it’s automatic for current recipients. 12
Who qualifies for JobSeeker?
Aussies 22+, unemployed, meeting income ($1,484.17 fortnightly) and assets tests, actively job searching. 0
Where can I check my payment rate?
On servicesaustralia.gov.au or your myGov account. 0