Centrelink rates after the September 2026 increase

Centrelink payments rose from 20 September 2026 as part of the regular twice-yearly indexation. More than 5 million Australians receive a payment that was adjusted in this round. Below are the headline maximum fortnightly rates that were reported for the main payments.

JobSeeker Payment

JobSeeker is the main payment for people of working age who are looking for work or temporarily unable to work. From 20 September 2026 the maximum fortnightly rates are:

• Single, no children: $833.70 a fortnight.
• Single, with a dependent child: $892.80 a fortnight.
• Partnered: $763.00 a fortnight each.

JobSeeker has an income test, so earning money from work can reduce your payment. Most people also need to meet mutual obligation requirements to keep receiving it.

Age Pension

The Age Pension is paid to older Australians who meet the age, residency, income and assets rules. From 20 September 2026 the maximum rates are:

• Single: $1,237.70 a fortnight.
• Couple: $1,866.00 a fortnight combined.

These maximum figures include the pension supplement and energy supplement. Many pensioners receive a part pension because of the income and assets tests.

Disability Support Pension

For most adults aged 21 and over, the Disability Support Pension is paid at the same maximum rate as the Age Pension. Younger recipients are paid at different rates that depend on age and whether they live at home. Because the rules vary, it is best to check the official rate that applies to your age and situation.

Parenting Payment

Parenting Payment helps the main carer of a young child. From 20 September 2026 the maximum rate for a single parent is $1,087.20 a fortnight, while partnered recipients receive up to $763.00 a fortnight each. Family Tax Benefit is a separate payment and may be added on top.

Youth Allowance and Austudy

Youth Allowance rates depend heavily on age, whether you live at home or away from home, and whether you have children. Austudy is for full-time students and apprentices aged 25 and over. Both payments were indexed in September, but because there are many different rates, check the official table for your exact category.

Rent Assistance

Commonwealth Rent Assistance is extra money for people who pay private rent and already receive an eligible payment. From 20 September 2026 the maximum rate for a single person without children is $223.80 a fortnight. You only receive the maximum if your rent is above a certain amount, and rates are different for couples and families.

Why your payment might be lower than these figures

• You earn income from work, investments or other sources.
• Your assets are above the free area for your payment.
• Your partner's income is counted.
• You live with your parents or share accommodation.
• You haven't reported income or updated your details on time.

Next: what arrives each fortnight

Most payments are quoted as fortnightly amounts because that's how they're paid. On the next page you'll see practical examples of what different people typically receive every two weeks.

Gezko is an independent information website. We are not Centrelink, Services Australia or any government agency, and we do not process claims or payments. Rates and rules can change — always confirm your own details through your myGov account, the Express Plus Centrelink app or the official Services Australia website.