In 2025, Centrelink’s Rent Assistance continues to provide vital financial help for low-income Australians struggling with rental costs. This non-taxable payment is automatically available to those receiving certain income support benefits and paying rent above a minimum threshold, helping to reduce the strain of rising housing expenses.
- Automatic payment for eligible income-support recipients who pay rent above set thresholds.
- Maximum rates increased in March 2025, with singles now receiving up to $212 per fortnight.
- Payments reviewed and adjusted twice a year, in line with inflation and ABS data.
| Household Type | Fortnightly Rent Threshold | Fortnightly Rent Ceiling | Maximum Assistance |
|---|---|---|---|
| Single | $149.60 | $432.27 | $212.00 |
| Single, sharing | $149.60 | $338.05 | $141.33 |
| Couple | $242.40 | $508.80 | $199.80 |
| Family with 1–2 children (FTB A) | $290.36 | $622.63 | $249.20 |
| Family with 3+ children | $290.36 | $665.75 | $281.54 |
How Rent Assistance Works
Rent Assistance is calculated in three steps:
- Threshold: You must pay rent above the minimum qualifying amount, such as $149.60 per fortnight for singles.
- Top-up rate: For every dollar above the threshold, Centrelink adds 75 cents.
- Ceiling: Payments are capped once you reach the rent ceiling, such as $432.27 per fortnight for singles.
The rates are updated every 20 March and 1 July, keeping them aligned with CPI movements and Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) rental data.
Recent Increases and Government Adjustments
From March 2025, singles can receive up to $212 per fortnight, while couples can get up to $199.80. This reflects ongoing indexation and a 10% boost introduced in September 2024. Overall, Rent Assistance has risen by more than 45% since May 2022.
Eligibility Criteria
You may be eligible if you pay private rent, board, or lodging, and receive a qualifying payment such as JobSeeker Payment, Age Pension, Disability Support Pension, ABSTUDY, Youth or Austudy Allowance, Parenting Payment, or Family Tax Benefit A.
You cannot receive Rent Assistance if you:
- Own or are buying your home (with exceptions for relocatable homes).
- Live in public housing or receive subsidised rent.
- Are in a Commonwealth-funded aged care facility.
- Have a partner already receiving Rent Assistance.
How to Access Rent Assistance
No separate application is needed. Centrelink automatically assesses eligibility when you:
- Apply for an income-support payment.
- Update your rent details via myGov or the Express Plus Centrelink app.
Keep rent receipts or lease agreements on hand, as Centrelink may request evidence. Always report changes in your rent, living arrangements, or income promptly to ensure you receive the correct payment.
Why It Matters in the Current Housing Market
Despite recent increases, Rent Assistance still covers less than 20% of median rents across Australia, according to a 2025 Guardian report. With housing affordability worsening, many low-income households continue to face rental stress. Experts argue that while boosts help, more structural measures are needed to address the ongoing crisis.