As the cost of living continues to rise across Australia, many families are struggling to keep up with rent, groceries, and bills. To provide urgent relief, Centrelink is offering a one-off $500 Crisis Payment for eligible Australians. But there’s a catch — applications must be submitted no later than September 30, 2025.
If you think you may qualify, here’s everything you need to know before the deadline passes.
What Is the $500 Centrelink Crisis Payment?
The Crisis Payment is a tax-free, one-off support payment designed to help Australians facing serious financial hardship due to sudden or unexpected events. Unlike regular Centrelink benefits, this payment is meant for emergencies only and is not ongoing.
It’s a lifeline for people dealing with extreme circumstances and struggling to cover essential costs in the short term.
Who Is Eligible for the $500 Crisis Payment?
Eligibility depends on personal circumstances. Some Australians may automatically qualify, while others will need to provide supporting evidence.
You may be eligible if you:
- Recently lost work and are now struggling financially.
- Have experienced a personal emergency leading to unexpected expenses.
- Already receive Centrelink payments but are facing additional hardship.
⚠️ Important: Not everyone on Centrelink will automatically qualify. Each claim is assessed individually.
Deadline to Apply
- Final date: Monday, September 30, 2025
- How to apply: Log in to your myGov account linked to Centrelink.
- Where to claim: Go to Payments and Claims → Payees → Crisis Payment.
- Documents needed: Upload any supporting evidence of your situation.
Anyone who fails to apply before the deadline will miss out — no late claims will be accepted.
Why This Payment Matters
With inflation putting pressure on household budgets, the $500 Crisis Payment can help ease urgent costs such as:
- Rent and housing expenses
- Utility bills
- Food and groceries
- Unexpected medical or emergency costs
This support is especially important for:
- Low-income families
- Students and jobseekers
- Pensioners and people on fixed incomes
Quick Guide: How to Claim the Crisis Payment
- Log in to your myGov account connected to Centrelink.
- Navigate to Payments and Claims.
- Select Payees → Crisis Payment.
- Upload any required documentation (proof of hardship).
- Submit your claim before September 30, 2025.
FAQs About the $500 Centrelink Crisis Payment
1. Is the $500 Crisis Payment taxable?
No, it is a tax-free payment.
2. Can I apply if I already receive other Centrelink benefits?
Yes, but eligibility is based on your personal hardship. Not all Centrelink recipients will automatically qualify.
3. How many times can I claim this payment?
It is a one-off payment and not ongoing.
4. How long does it take to receive the payment?
Processing times may vary, but payments are generally made within a few business days once approved.
5. Can I still apply after September 30, 2025?
No. Claims must be submitted before the deadline. Late applications will not be accepted.
Final Thoughts
The $500 Centrelink Crisis Payment offers crucial short-term relief for Australians hit hardest by rising costs. With the deadline fast approaching on September 30, 2025, eligible individuals should act quickly to avoid missing out.
If you think you qualify, log in to myGov today and submit your claim — this one-off payment could make all the difference in getting through the weeks ahead.