JobSeeker Payment Rises $16.20 Fortnightly From September 20, 2026

Centrelink recipients across Australia will receive a cash boost on September 20 when the government indexes major welfare payments higher. JobSeeker will jump $16.20 per fortnight for single people without children, while Age Pension recipients gain $36.80 fortnightly. The $4 billion package affects 5.3 million people and aims to ease cost-of-living pressure.

How much JobSeeker will increase

From September 20, JobSeeker for a single person without children will rise to $833.70 per fortnight, an increase of $16.20. Parents on JobSeeker receive an extra $20.90 to reach $1,087.20, while couples gain $14.80 each to $763 per fortnight. The indexation follows the twice-yearly adjustment cycle tied to inflation over the prior six months.

Age Pension and Rent Assistance gains

Single Age Pension recipients will receive an extra $36.80 per fortnight, bringing the maximum rate to $1,237.70. Couples on Age Pension gain $55.60 to $1,866 per fortnight. Rent Assistance also increases, with singles receiving an extra $4.40 to $223.80 and couples gaining $4.20 to $211 per fortnight.

Youth Allowance and ABSTUDY indexed

Youth Allowance payments will rise by $20.90 per fortnight to $1,087.20. ABSTUDY for a single person increases $16.20 to $833.70 per fortnight. These increases apply to 5.3 million recipients and are grounded in the pensioner and beneficiary living cost index rise measured by the Australian Bureau of Statistics.

Deeming rates rise alongside payments

The government will also increase deeming rates, which estimate how much income financial assets would earn. The rate rises to 1.75 per cent for assets up to $66,800 for singles and $110,600 for couples combined. Any assets above those thresholds attract a rate of 3.75 per cent. Social Services Minister Tanya Plibersek said the changes are grounded in fairness and will help with cost of living.

Final Thoughts

The September 20 indexation delivers real relief to millions of Australians on income support, with JobSeeker rising $16.20 and Age Pension climbing $36.80 per fortnight. The $4 billion investment targets those most vulnerable to inflation pressure. Eligible recipients should check their payment schedule through Services Australia.

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