The $1027 Centrelink JobSeeker Benefit in September 2025 represents an important financial support payment provided by the Australian Government through Centrelink for eligible Australians who are unemployed or temporarily unable to work.
This article covers detailed, up-to-date information about the JobSeeker Payment rate increase effective from September 2025, who qualifies for this payment, eligibility criteria, income and assets tests, and how to apply. It also includes a comprehensive table of payment rates and ends with commonly asked questions regarding the JobSeeker Payment.
What is the Centrelink JobSeeker Payment?
The JobSeeker Payment is a fortnightly allowance intended to help Australians aged between 22 and Age Pension age who are unemployed, looking for work, temporarily sick, or injured and unable to work or study for a short period. It is a key social security payment designed to support individuals financially during times of job loss or inability to work due to health reasons.
From 20 September 2025, Centrelink increased the JobSeeker Payment rates, reflecting adjustments to the cost of living and inflation. For singles without children, the payment has increased to approximately $1027 per fortnight in some cases depending on specific eligibility criteria such as partial work capacity or single principal carer status.
Who Qualifies for the JobSeeker Payment in September 2025?
To be eligible to receive the JobSeeker Payment, applicants must meet the following main criteria:
- Be an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or hold a qualifying visa.
- Be aged between 22 years and under Age Pension age (usually up to 66 years).
- Be unemployed, actively looking for work, or temporarily unable to work or study due to illness or injury.
- Meet residence requirements, having lived in Australia for a minimum qualifying period.
- Pass income and assets tests, ensuring that total income and assets fall within prescribed limits.
- Comply with mutual obligation requirements, such as actively seeking employment or engaging in approved training programs unless exempt.
Eligibility Requirements in Detail
- Age and Residency: Applicants must be between 22 years and Age Pension age. They must reside in Australia and meet specific residency duration rules.
- Employment Status: Applicants must be unemployed or have reduced work hours and seeking work. People temporarily sick or injured can qualify if unable to work or study.
- Income Test: The amount received reduces if the applicant’s income exceeds certain thresholds. Income includes earnings from work, investments, and other sources.
- Assets Test: There are limits on assets such as property (excluding the principal home), vehicles, and savings. Assets beyond specified limits disqualify applicants.
September 2025 JobSeeker Payment Rates Table
| Situation | Fortnightly Payment (From 20 Sept 2025) |
|---|---|
| Single, no children | $793.60 |
| Single, with dependent child(ren) | $836.50 |
| Single, 55 or older (9+ months on income support) | $836.50 |
| Single, partial capacity to work (<15 hours a week) | Up to $1027* |
| Partnered | $726.50 |
| Single principal carer exempt from mutual obligation | Up to $1,027* |
*Note: The maximum $1027 payment applies to specific cases such as single principal carers or individuals with partial work capacity exemptions.
In addition to these rates, an energy supplement of approximately $8.90 per fortnight is provided to assist with rising energy costs.
Income and Assets Limits
Applicants must meet income and assets tests to qualify for or continue to receive payments. For example:
| Family Situation | Homeowners Asset Limit | Non-Homeowners Asset Limit |
|---|---|---|
| Single | $321,500 | $579,500 |
| Couple combined | $481,500 | $739,500 |
Assets include financial investments, vehicle value, and certain property excluding the primary residence. Income limits vary with family situation and affect the reduction rate of payments.
How to Apply for JobSeeker Payment?
Applying for JobSeeker Payment is streamlined through Centrelink’s online service via the myGov portal. Applicants will need to gather proof of identity, income, assets, and residency. The process involves:
- Creating or logging into a myGov account linked to Centrelink.
- Completing the JobSeeker Payment application online.
- Submitting requested documents such as proof of income and residency.
- Complying with any waiting periods, if applicable.
For those unable to apply online, Centrelink provides phone support to assist with applications.
Mutual Obligation Requirements
To continue receiving payments, JobSeeker recipients must usually fulfill mutual obligation requirements. This may include:
- Actively seeking work and registering with employment services.
- Attending job interviews or training.
- Reporting changes in income or circumstances.
Temporary exemptions can apply for illness, injury, or other serious personal circumstances.
Importance of JobSeeker Payment
The JobSeeker Payment plays a vital role in supporting Australians facing unemployment or temporary work incapacity by providing essential financial assistance. The recent increase to around $1027 per fortnight (for certain eligible cases) helps recipients cope with rising living costs, including housing, food, and utility expenses.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1. What is the standard JobSeeker Payment amount from September 2025?
The standard fortnightly payment for a single person without children is approximately $793.60, with higher rates up to $1027 for carers or partial capacity recipients.
Q2. Who is eligible for the JobSeeker Payment?
Australian residents aged between 22 and Age Pension age who are unemployed or temporarily unable to work, meeting income, assets, and residency tests.
Q3. How often is the JobSeeker Payment paid?
Payments are made every two weeks (fortnightly).
Q4. Can I receive JobSeeker Payment and work part-time?
Yes, but your payment amount may reduce based on your income and work hours.
Q5. How do I apply for the JobSeeker Payment?
Applications are primarily through the Centrelink myGov online portal, with phone support available for those who need it.
Conclusion
The $1027 Centrelink JobSeeker Payment increase effective September 2025 is a significant support measure for eligible Australians facing unemployment or temporary inability to work. Understanding the eligibility requirements, payment rates, and application process helps ensure that those in need receive financial assistance during challenging periods.
