Centrelink payments including Youth Allowance, disability pension and Austudy increase with indexation from start of new year


Almost one million Australians will see an increase to their welfare support payments with the start of a new calendar year.

More than 936,000 people receiving youth, student or carer support will see a 6 per cent boost to their payments with indexation taking effect from January 1.

The payments’ routine indexation happens annually in January to keep up with inflation.

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Social Services Minister Amanda Rishworth earlier said the increases would help those receiving support navigate cost of living pressures.

“Australia’s social security system is a safety net that is continually strengthened and improved to support all vulnerable Australians,” Rishworth said.

“Through regular indexation, our payments are adjusted in line with changes in the cost of living to retain their purchasing power.”

A complete list of January 1 payment increases can be found on the Department of Social Services website.

Youth Allowance payments will increase by $22.40 and $25.80 per fortnight respectively for singles under 18, and over 18 living at home, and $36.20 for those living out of home.

Those with a partner and children will receive a $39.20 boost per fortnight, while anyone in a relationship without children gets a $36.20 increase.

Australians receiving Austudy will also get an increase between $36.20 and $45.60 per fortnight.

Those under 21 receiving a disability support pension will receive increases of $31.10 to $44.90.

More than 600,000 carers will benefit when the carer allowance increases to $153.50 a fortnight.

The rates for ABSTUDY, isolated children assistance, mobility allowance, double orphan pension and pharmaceutical allowance will also increase.

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