Kim
In a major step toward easing the financial burden on Australia’s most vulnerable, the government has rolled out a $2,250 “Double Boost” payment for eligible aged and disability pensioners in 2025.
This initiative includes two components: a $1,500 advance payment and a $750 cost-of-living relief supplement, both aimed at tackling rising inflation, increasing rent, and everyday living expenses.
If you’re receiving an eligible Centrelink payment, here’s everything you need to know about how you could benefit from this massive financial support package.
What Is the $2,250 “Double Boost” Support?
The Double Boost combines two forms of support:
- $1,500 Advance Payment: A repayable early payment of your existing pension benefits, deducted over 13 fortnights.
- $750 Cost-of-Living Relief Payment: A non-taxable, non-repayable lump sum granted to help cover essentials like groceries, energy bills, and healthcare.
Eligibility Criteria
To access the full $2,250 payment, recipients must qualify for both components. The eligibility is broken down as follows:
Eligibility for the $1,500 Advance Payment:
- Must be currently receiving the Age Pension or Disability Support Pension (DSP)
- Must have been on the pension for at least 3 months
- Cannot have received an advance in the last 12 months
- Must have capacity to repay via fortnightly deductions
Eligibility for the $750 Cost-of-Living Payment:
- Must be receiving the Age Pension, DSP, Carer Payment, or Veteran’s Support
- Must have been residing in Australia during May 2025
- Must have received a qualifying payment for at least one day in that month
Payment Breakdown: What You Could Receive
| Payment Type | Amount | Taxable | Repayable | Delivery Method |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Advance Payment | $1,500 | No | Yes | Deducted from pension |
| Cost-of-Living Payment | $750 | No | No | One-time bank deposit |
| Total Double Boost | $2,250 | No | Partially | Automatic to eligible accounts |
Important: Payments will appear in your account under references such as “Advance Centrelink” and “COL Relief 2025”.
When Will You Receive the Payments?
The government has laid out a clear distribution schedule to ensure timely access for all eligible Australians.
Payment Timeline
| Date Range | Recipient Group | Status |
|---|---|---|
| From June 17, 2025 | Age Pension & DSP recipients | First deposits processed |
| June 20 – June 24 | Carer Payments & JobSeeker | Batch processing begins |
| June 25 – June 28 | Family Tax Benefit & Veterans | Finalization of payments |
| By July 5, 2025 | All other eligible individuals | Payments complete |
Make sure your banking information in myGov is accurate to avoid delays.
Do These Payments Affect Tax or Other Benefits?
The $2,250 Double Boost has been structured to maximize support without penalties.
- The $750 relief payment is non-taxable and won’t affect any other benefit you’re receiving.
- The $1,500 advance is a prepaid benefit, meaning it’s not new money but is repaid through small deductions from your regular pension.
- Neither payment will count as assessable income for tax or income-tested Centrelink services.
How to Apply
Advance Payment
You must request the $1,500 advance via:
- Your myGov account (linked to Centrelink)
- The Express Plus Centrelink app
- Calling your regular Centrelink phone line
- Visiting your nearest Centrelink office
$750 Cost-of-Living Payment
No application is required. If you meet the criteria, you’ll receive this payment automatically.
Smart Ways to Use Your Double Boost
Here’s how pensioners can maximize the value of their $2,250:
- Pay off utility arrears or rent
- Purchase bulk groceries
- Cover medical or dental expenses
- Replace or repair essential household items
- Build an emergency fund or cover travel costs for family support
Using budgeting tools like the Services Australia planner can help ensure you use this money effectively.
The $2,250 Double Boost is a powerful lifeline for aged and disability pensioners across Australia. In a time of rising inflation and household pressures, this targeted relief delivers both immediate cash flow and longer-term stability.
Eligible recipients are encouraged to update their details, claim their advance if needed, and plan carefully to make the most of this support.
With no applications needed for the $750 portion and flexible options for the advance, this initiative provides real, practical help for those who need it most in 2025.
FAQs
Do I need to pay back the $750 cost-of-living payment?
No. The $750 is a one-time, non-repayable, tax-free payment.
Can I get the advance payment and the relief payment together?
Yes. If eligible, you can receive both, totaling $2,250.
How do I check if I’ve received the payment?
Check your bank statement for entries like “Advance Payment” or “COL Relief 2025”. You can also log in to myGov.