Sometimes, people face sudden costs like medical bills, home repairs, or school needs. Waiting for regular payments isn’t always possible. That’s why the Australian Government offers Centrelink Advance Payments. This support helps eligible people get part of their Centrelink payment earlier.
This advance is not extra money, but an early payout from what you’re already supposed to receive. It is interest-free, and Centrelink slowly deducts it from your future payments over about six months (13 fortnights). It’s a helpful way to cover urgent costs without needing loans or credit cards.
The amount you can get and your eligibility depends on the payment type you already receive. Many people, including pensioners, students, and job seekers, can apply. Let’s look at who can apply, how much they can get, and how to apply step-by-step.
What is a Centrelink Advance Payment?
A Centrelink Advance Payment is a one-time early payment taken from your usual Centrelink benefit. You receive a lump sum now and pay it back slowly through regular deductions. It helps when you have urgent financial needs but want to avoid borrowing money elsewhere.
Who Can Apply for Early Centrelink Payments?
To apply, you must already be receiving certain Centrelink payments and meet time conditions. Some payments require you to have received them for at least three months, while others allow instant eligibility.
Eligible People:
- Minimum 3 months of payments:
- Age Pension
- Disability Support Pension
- Carer Payment
- JobSeeker Payment
- Parenting Payment
- Youth Allowance (for job seekers)
- Farm Household Allowance
- Eligible anytime:
- ABSTUDY Living Allowance
- Austudy
- Youth Allowance (for students)
- Family Tax Benefit Part A
- Mobility Allowance
Who is Not Allowed to Apply?
You cannot get an advance if:
- You already got one in the past year (for some payments).
- You owe Centrelink or the Australian Government money.
- You can’t repay the advance within 13 fortnights.
- You are overseas while applying.
- The minimum amount for advance isn’t available in your case.
Special Rules for Mobility Allowance Recipients:
- You can’t get an advance if you’re planning to leave Australia for more than six weeks.
- You must still be working or training to be eligible.
How Much Money Can You Get?
The amount of the advance depends on the type of Centrelink benefit you receive. Here is a breakdown:
Family Tax Benefit Part A:
- Regular Advance: 3.75% of the basic rate for one child under 13, every 26 weeks.
- One-time Advance: Up to 7.5% of the yearly rate, capped at $1,348.81.
Pension (Age, Carer, Disability):
- Single: $542.75 to $1,628.25
- Couples: $409.10 to $1,227.30
- If you get a part payment, the advance is based on that amount.
Job Seekers, Youth Allowance, Austudy, Parenting, Farm Household:
- Minimum Advance: $250
- Maximum Advance: $500
- Option to receive full amount or split into two payments.
Special Employment Advance:
- Range: $50 to $500
- For those who’ve recently found work and need help with related costs (like transport, uniforms, etc.).
Mobility Allowance Advance:
- Equal to 13 weeks of the allowance.
- You won’t receive regular Mobility Allowance again until the advance period ends.
Steps to Apply for an Advance
Step 1: Get Ready
- Make sure you qualify.
- Connect your myGov account to Centrelink.
- Be ready to share your financial details to show you can repay.
Step 2: Apply
You can apply in several ways:
- Online: Log in to myGov, select ‘Apply for Advance’, and follow the prompts.
- App: Use the Express Plus Centrelink mobile app.
- Phone: Call Centrelink’s self-service or support line.
- In-Person: Visit any Centrelink office.
- For Farm Allowance: Call the Farmer Assistance Hotline.
- Special Employment Advance: Use a special claim form provided by Centrelink.
Step 3: After You Apply
- You will receive a receipt right after submitting.
- If approved, Centrelink will send you all the details.
- If denied, you can request a review of the decision.
How Repayments Work
Repayments happen automatically every fortnight and last for 13 payments.
Details:
- Automatic Deductions: Total advance divided by 13.
- Optional Early Repayment: You can repay sooner online or by calling Centrelink.
- Multiple Advances: If you have more than one, deductions will be higher until all are paid off.
If You Stop Receiving Payments:
You must still pay the amount you owe. Centrelink will tell you how to repay the remaining balance.
If You’re Struggling to Pay:
Contact Centrelink to discuss hardship options and other repayment plans.