Australia’s JobSeeker Payment is a crucial support system for people who are unemployed or underemployed. From 20 September 2025, singles without children will receive a $12.50 fortnightly increase in their base payment. While modest, this adjustment helps recipients keep up with rising living costs such as rent, groceries, and transport.
Why the September 2025 Increase?
Twice a year, Centrelink indexes social security payments to keep pace with wage growth and inflation. The September 2025 adjustment aims to ensure payments retain their real value. Key increases include:
- $12.50 for singles with no children
- Up to $16.20 for single principal carers
- $11.40 for partnered recipients
This indexation isn’t a windfall, but it helps ease financial pressure for those relying on JobSeeker.
Who Is Eligible for JobSeeker?
You can receive JobSeeker Payment if you:
- Are 22 to 66 years old (pension age)
- Live in Australia as a permanent resident
- Are unemployed, underemployed, or temporarily unable to work
- Pass the income and assets test
- Meet mutual obligations, such as actively searching for work, volunteering, or participating in approved training
Certain groups, like single parents, carers, or those with partial work capacity, may receive higher rates or additional supplements.
Updated JobSeeker Payment Rates from 20 September 2025
| Family Situation | Old Amount (Fortnightly) | New Amount | Increase |
|---|---|---|---|
| Single, no children | $781.10 | $793.60 | $12.50 |
| Single with children | $836.50 | $849.90 | $13.40 |
| Single 55+, 9+ months unemployed | $836.50 | $849.90 | $13.40 |
| Single with partial capacity to work | $836.50 | $849.90 | $13.40 |
| Couple (each) | $715.10 | $726.50 | $11.40 |
| Single principal carer of a child | $1,011.50 | $1,027.70 | $16.20 |
The increase applies automatically—no new claim is required for existing recipients.
How to Apply for JobSeeker
For new claimants:
- Log into myGov and link it to Centrelink.
- Submit a claim for JobSeeker Payment.
- Provide ID, proof of income/assets, and other required documents.
- Agree to mutual obligations, including job search reporting or training.
- Wait for approval—first payment arrives after the one-week waiting period.
Advance Payments
Eligible recipients can request an advance payment to cover urgent costs, like rent arrears or car repairs. These are deducted from future fortnightly payments.
Staying Eligible
To continue receiving JobSeeker:
- Report income and work hours each fortnight
- Comply with your Job Plan
- Notify Centrelink about any major changes, such as starting work, moving, or relationship changes
Why This Increase Matters
The $12.50 boost may seem small, but it translates to around $325 per year for a single recipient—enough to cover a quarter of electricity bills or several weeks of public transport. While critics argue the payment is still insufficient to combat poverty, the increase reflects a steady effort to maintain support in a high-cost environment.
FAQs
Q1: When will I see the new JobSeeker rate?
From the first scheduled payment after 20 September 2025.
Q2: Do single parents get a higher increase?
Yes, single principal carers receive up to $16.20 per fortnight.
Q3: Can JobSeeker affect other benefits?
It may interact with Rent Assistance, Energy Supplements, or Family Tax Benefits, but the base increase doesn’t reduce other payments.
Q4: Can I work part-time and still receive JobSeeker?
Yes, as long as your earnings stay below the income test threshold.
Q5: Do I need to reapply for the increase?
No. Existing recipients will automatically receive the new rate.
Conclusion
The September 2025 JobSeeker increase is a small but meaningful boost for Australians relying on welfare. While it doesn’t solve the cost-of-living challenge, it ensures payments keep pace with inflation and provides some extra support for daily expenses. Staying informed and compliant with eligibility rules helps maximize the benefits of JobSeeker, making every extra dollar count.