Centrelink Payment for Youth in March: If you’re a young Australian currently relying on Centrelink, there’s good news: a new $385 one-off payment is rolling out in March 2025 to help ease financial pressure. Whether you’re a student, apprentice, or job seeker, this cost-of-living support could provide much-needed relief.
This Centrelink youth payment is part of a broader government effort to support vulnerable Australians. With costs of rent, transport, food, and bills steadily rising, the extra $385 offers a cushion for those most impacted—including young people starting their careers or studies.
Centrelink Payment for Youth in March
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Payment Amount | $385 (one-off payment) |
| Who Qualifies | Youth on Youth Allowance, Austudy, ABSTUDY, or other eligible benefits |
| Payment Month | March 2025 |
| Eligibility Cut-Off | Must be receiving payment as of 15 February 2025 |
| How to Check Eligibility | Through myGov or Services Australia |
| Related Increases | Fortnightly payments increased by $17.30–$26.00 from January 1, 2025 |
| Official Resource | Services Australia Website |
The $385 Centrelink payment in March 2025 is a welcome boost for students, apprentices, and young job seekers across Australia. With eligibility covering major payments like Youth Allowance, Austudy, and ABSTUDY, this is a timely support initiative that reflects rising living costs and the unique struggles young Australians face.
Make sure your myGov account is updated, check your payment history, and don’t miss out on this bonus. For many, it’s the small boost that helps keep study, work, and life on track.
Why the $385 Centrelink Payment Matters
The government has acknowledged that young Australians are doing it tough. Housing shortages, high grocery prices, and skyrocketing energy bills have put many under financial strain—especially students who often juggle study with part-time work.
This one-off payment is not just financial assistance—it’s a recognition of the challenges youth are facing. Minister for Social Services Amanda Rishworth recently said:
“Young Australians are at the forefront of the cost-of-living crisis. This one-off payment will help them stay focused on their education and employment goals without sacrificing essentials.”
— Amanda Rishworth, Minister for Social Services
Who Will Get the $385 Centrelink Payment?
Eligible Payment Types
You’re likely eligible if you were receiving any of the following Centrelink payments on or before 15 February 2025:
- Youth Allowance (students and job seekers aged 16–24)
- Austudy (full-time students/apprentices 25+)
- ABSTUDY (Indigenous students/apprentices)
- JobSeeker Payment
- Parenting Payment
- Carer Payment
- Disability Support Pension
- Age Pension
- Commonwealth Seniors Health Card holders
This wide list shows the government is trying to cover a broad group of vulnerable Australians, not just the elderly or job seekers.
How Will the Payment Be Delivered?
The best part? You don’t need to apply.
- Centrelink will automatically deposit the $385 payment into your registered bank account during March 2025.
- Keep an eye on your myGov account under “Payment History” for details.
Tip: Double-check your bank details, study status, and contact info are up to date in myGov to avoid delays.
Real-Life Example: How This Helps
Let’s take “Jake,” a 20-year-old university student living out of home in Sydney. Jake works part-time at a supermarket and receives Youth Allowance.
- His fortnightly Youth Allowance was $639, and in January, it increased to $663.30.
- With rent, groceries, and Opal card costs, he barely scrapes through.
Now, with this extra $385 payment, Jake can:
- Pay for 2 weeks’ rent
- Cover textbooks or a new laptop charger
- Put aside a small emergency fund
For Jake and thousands like him, this one-time top-up makes a real difference.
Youth Allowance Increase: A Double Win
Along with the one-off $385 payment, Centrelink indexed Youth Allowance and Austudy payments from 1 January 2025:
| Recipient Type | Old Fortnightly Rate | New Rate (Jan 2025) | Increase |
|---|---|---|---|
| Single, under 18, at home | $395.30 | $412.60 | +$17.30 |
| Single, 18+, at home | $455.20 | $476.20 | +$21.00 |
| Single, living away from home | $639.00 | $663.30 | +$24.30 |
| Single with children | $806.00 | $832.00 | +$26.00 |
This means recipients are getting both an ongoing boost and a one-time bonus—a welcome improvement to youth support in 2025.
How to Check If You’re Getting Centrelink Payment for Youth
Step 1: Log into myGov
Ensure your Centrelink account is linked.
Step 2: Click ‘Centrelink’ > ‘Payments and Claims’
Go to your Payment History to view upcoming deposits.
Step 3: Check for March Payment Labelled “Cost-of-Living”
You’ll see the $385 marked as a one-off or bonus payment if you’re eligible.
Step 4: Need Help?
- Call the Centrelink Youth & Students Line at 132 490
- Or visit your local Centrelink service centre
Comparison: How This Stacks Up to Previous Support
In 2022–2023, the government issued several cost-of-living payments like:
- $250 Energy Bill Relief payments
- $400 one-off bonuses for pensioners and job seekers
But youth-specific support was limited. The March 2025 $385 payment is one of the most targeted relief measures aimed specifically at students and young Australians in recent years.
What’s Next: Will More Support Come?
The Federal Budget (expected May 2025) may include:
- Additional Rent Assistance boosts
- More one-time payments if inflation persists
- Expanded eligibility for Student Start-Up Loans
Expert Tips for Maximizing Your Support
- Apply for Rent Assistance if you’re paying rent and receiving Youth Allowance or Austudy
- Use budgeting tools from Moneysmart.gov.au to plan your expenses
- Check if you’re eligible for transport concessions, electricity rebates, or food vouchers
- Look into Tertiary Access Payments if you’ve recently moved for study
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FAQs About $385 Youth Payment March 2025
Do I need to apply for the $385 payment?
No. If you’re eligible, you’ll receive it automatically in March.
What if I didn’t get it?
Call 132 490 or visit Centrelink. Check myGov for any issues with your bank details or eligibility.
Will this affect my regular Youth Allowance?
No. This is a separate one-time payment and does not reduce other entitlements.
Will there be more payments in 2025?
Possibly. The May Budget may reveal more cost-of-living measures, especially if inflation continues.
What should I do if my circumstances changed recently?
Report changes (study, work, living arrangements) via myGov to ensure payment accuracy.
