Centrelink JobSeeker Increase Coming in November 2025 — Higher Rates, New Rules and Updated Payment Dates for Australians

JobSeeker recipients across Australia will see a long-awaited boost from November 2025, with the government confirming higher rates, new eligibility rules and adjusted payment dates for hundreds of thousands of unemployed Australians. The increase aims to help JobSeeker keep pace with rapidly rising living costs, from rent and fuel to basic groceries. In Geelong, 34-year-old jobseeker Lauren Pike said the update “finally feels like the system is catching up — every bill has gone up except JobSeeker”.

The changes introduce one of the most significant JobSeeker adjustments in recent years and form part of a broader cost-of-living support strategy.

What’s Changing in November 2025

• JobSeeker base rates will increase by approximately $28–$42 per fortnight depending on age and circumstances.
• Payment dates will shift slightly for some recipients as Centrelink streamlines its processing cycles.
• Income reporting rules will tighten, particularly for casual and gig-economy workers.
• Assets and partner-income thresholds will be updated to reflect new indexation data.
• Job plan participation requirements will be revised with more flexible pathways for mature-age recipients.

Real Stories Behind the Policy

For 29-year-old Brisbane job hunter Alex Winton, the increase is overdue. “Rent alone eats most of my payment. The higher rate will help me stay afloat while I look for full-time work,” he said.

Meanwhile, mature-age jobseeker Elaine Morris, 58, from Hobart says the participation rule changes may finally ease pressure. “It’s not easy competing with younger applicants. Having more realistic requirements is a relief,” she said.

Government Statements

A Services Australia spokesperson said the changes ensure JobSeeker remains relevant in a shifting economy. “The November 2025 adjustments improve support levels, modernise participation rules and ensure payments reflect contemporary cost pressures,” they said.

Employment ministers added that the revised participation framework is designed to better support people aged over 55 and those transitioning between industries.

Analysis and Data Insight

Australia’s unemployment benefits have lagged behind inflation for several years, leaving many recipients below the poverty line. Recent studies show that more than 62 percent of JobSeeker recipients spend over half their income on rent alone.

The government anticipates that more than 820,000 Australians will benefit from the November changes, with the largest increases flowing to older recipients and those living independently.

Comparison Table: JobSeeker 2024 vs 2025

Category	2024 Rate (Approx.)	November 2025 Rate (Approx.)	Notes
Single, 22+	Lower indexed rate	+$28–$42 increase	Largest rise for singles
Single, with children	Higher tier	Indexed increase	Dependent supplement applies
Partnered	Lower than single	Indexed increase	Partner-income threshold updated
Mature-age (55+)	Standard rate	Boosted	Participation rules adjusted
Casual workers	Variable	Tighter reporting rules	Income-test changes apply

What You Should Know

JobSeeker recipients should take several steps before the November rollout:

• Update all income and asset information through myGov.
• Review your employment diary and job plan requirements.
• Check your new payment date in the Centrelink app.
• Ensure bank details are current to avoid deposit delays.
• Keep records of casual or gig earnings in case of review.

Q&A Section

1. How much will JobSeeker increase by?
   Approximately $28–$42 per fortnight depending on age and situation.
2. When does the increase start?
   From your first scheduled payment after 30 November 2025.
3. Do I need to apply?
   No, the increase is automatic.
4. Will income reporting rules change?
   Yes, especially for casual and gig workers.
5. What about partner income?
   Partner-income thresholds will be updated under indexation.
6. Will mature-age jobseekers have different requirements?
   Yes, participation rules become more flexible for those over 55.
7. Does the increase affect Rent Assistance?
   No, Rent Assistance adjusts separately.
8. Can the increase be delayed?
   Yes, if reviews or income reports are overdue.
9. Will the new rate reduce debts?
   No, existing Centrelink debts remain unchanged.
10. Does the change affect Youth Allowance?
    No, Youth Allowance adjusts through separate indexation.
11. Can I still study while on JobSeeker?
    Yes, under approved activity rules.
12. Is the increase taxable?
    No, JobSeeker remains non-taxable.
13. Do temporary visa holders qualify?
    Generally no, unless already eligible for Centrelink.
14. Will payment days change for everyone?
    No, only for specific processing groups.
15. Where can I see my new rate?
    In the Centrelink app under Payment Summary.