New $320 Rental Support Payment Rolling Out From 27 November for Low-Income Australians

For thousands of Australians struggling to keep a roof over their heads, the final week of November is bringing a moment of relief. As rents continue to climb across every capital city, families have described the pressure as “unrelenting” — but a new $320 rental support payment arriving from 27 November aims to offer immediate breathing room for those on the lowest incomes.

For 54-year-old Melissa Carter from Adelaide, the upcoming payment means one less impossible decision. “Last month I had to choose between paying rent or filling my prescriptions,” she said. “This support won’t fix everything, but it means I can catch up for once.”

Here’s what Australians need to know.

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What’s Changing From 27 November

The federal government has confirmed a new $320 Rental Support Payment targeted at low-income renters, with the first rollout scheduled for 27 November. According to officials, the payment is designed to help tenants hardest hit by rent hikes that have risen nationally by an average of 11% over the past year.

Key features include:

• $320 one-time payment for eligible low-income renters
• Automatic deposit for those already verified through Centrelink or Services Australia
• Expanded eligibility for individuals receiving JobSeeker, Youth Allowance, Parenting Payment, Carer Payment, and disability supports
• Rent verification required for those not currently declaring rental information
• Support aimed at households paying more than 30% of their income on rent

A spokesperson for the Housing Minister said the payment is meant to serve as “immediate relief while longer-term housing affordability measures continue to roll out.”

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Real Stories Behind the Policy

For single renters like Aaron Liu, a 29-year-old hospitality worker in Sydney, even a small boost matters. After a rent increase of $85 per week earlier this year, Aaron said the household budget “has absolutely no fat left.”

“This $320 doesn’t cover a week of rent,” he said, “but it gives me some room to breathe heading into Christmas.”

Families with children are expected to see the most immediate benefit, especially those paying more than half of their income on rent — a situation the government describes as “severe rental stress.”

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Government Statements

Housing Ministerial representatives say the payment is part of a broader cost-of-living strategy designed to stop families from slipping into homelessness.

“We know renters are carrying the heaviest load in today’s economy,” a senior official said. “This measure gives people real support as we build more affordable homes and strengthen rental protections nationwide.”

Treasury figures shared with parliament show more than 1.8 million Australians are currently living in rental stress, creating mounting pressure for immediate intervention.

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Data Insight

Recent housing data shows:

• Capital city rents have increased between 9% and 14% depending on location.
• More than 41% of low-income Australians spend over 30% of their income on rent.
• Vacancy rates remain at record lows, holding around 1% in many major cities.

Policy analysts say the $320 payment will not reverse housing market pressures, but it may prevent short-term arrears and evictions.

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Comparison Table: Rental Support Before vs From 27 November

Support Type	Before 27 November	From 27 November
General Rental Assistance	Standard fortnightly rent assistance only	Continues unchanged
One-Time Help	None	New $320 Rental Support Payment
Eligibility	Rent Assistance recipients only	Broader eligibility for low-income renters across multiple payments
Verification	Required only for Rent Assistance	Required for all applicants without existing rent records
Payment Timing	N/A	Begins 27 November, automatic for verified renters

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What You Should Know

• If you already receive Rent Assistance and your rental information is up to date, you do not need to apply.
• If your rent has changed recently and you haven’t updated records, you should update your details with Services Australia to avoid delays.
• Payments will begin rolling out from 27 November, but some households may receive funds up to five business days later depending on their bank.
• Shared accommodation renters may qualify if they can verify their portion of rent.
• The payment will not affect other benefits or taxable income.

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Q&A: Your Top Questions Answered

1. Who exactly is eligible for the $320 payment?
Low-income renters receiving government income support such as JobSeeker, Youth Allowance, Parenting Payment, Carer Payment, Disability support, or other approved benefits.

2. Do I need to apply?
Most renters will not need to apply. If Services Australia already has your rental details, the payment will be issued automatically.

3. What if I’m a student living in share housing?
You may still be eligible if you can verify your share of the rent and meet income requirements.

4. Will the $320 affect my Rent Assistance?
No. This payment does not reduce or replace existing benefits.

5. Can two people in the same household each receive $320?
Yes, if both are eligible renters with verified rental arrangements.

6. How do I confirm my rental information is up to date?
You can update rent details through your myGov account linked to Centrelink.

7. What if my rent recently increased?
Update the new amount immediately; it may strengthen your eligibility and prevent payment delays.

8. What if I receive a pension?
Some pensioners in rental accommodation may qualify, depending on income thresholds.

9. Is this a recurring payment?
At this stage, the $320 support is a one-time measure.

10. When will the payment hit my bank account?
From 27 November, though banking times may vary.

11. What if I don’t receive the payment but think I’m eligible?
You can lodge a payment review request through Services Australia.

12. Does this apply to renters in remote or regional areas?
Yes. Eligibility rules apply nationwide.

13. Can landlords claim any portion of this payment?
No. The payment is for tenants only.

14. Will this impact my tax return?
No. It is not taxable.

15. Can I use the payment for other bills, not just rent?
Yes. There are no restrictions on how the payment is spent.