Are you currently unemployed or temporarily unable to work in Australia? If so, the JobSeeker Payment could provide vital support to help you through challenging times. In April 2025, eligible Australians may receive up to $1,030 per fortnight, with an additional one-off $400 cost-of-living bonus to help ease the pressure of rising expenses.
Here’s everything you need to know about this month’s JobSeeker payment, who qualifies, how much you could get, and how to apply through Centrelink.
What Is the JobSeeker Payment?
The JobSeeker Payment is a fortnightly income support payment for Australians aged 22 years and older, up to Age Pension age, who are either:
- Unemployed and actively looking for work, or
- Temporarily unable to work or study due to illness or injury.
It replaced the Newstart Allowance in 2020 and remains one of the main income safety nets for Australians navigating the job market or recovering from health issues.
How Much Can You Receive in April 2025?
Payment rates vary depending on your personal situation, such as your age, relationship status, and whether you have children. Here’s a breakdown of JobSeeker base rates as of April 2025:
| Situation | Fortnightly Payment |
|---|---|
| Single, no children | $781.10 |
| Single, with a dependent child | $836.50 |
| Single, aged 55+ and on JobSeeker for 9+ months | $836.50 |
| Partnered individuals | $715.10 |
| Single Principal Carer (special criteria) | Up to $1,011.50 |
Maximum possible payment including supplements: Up to $1,030/fortnight
Keep in mind: These are base amounts. You could receive additional supplements that increase your total payment significantly.
Extra Help in April: One-Time $400 Cost-of-Living Bonus
To ease the burden of inflation and rising living costs, the Federal Government is providing a $400 bonus to eligible recipients of JobSeeker in April 2025.
Key Details:
- Amount: $400 (one-off payment)
- When: Paid in April 2025
- Who qualifies: You must be receiving JobSeeker as of 31 March 2025
- Application needed? No – it’s paid automatically to eligible recipients
This bonus is part of a broader cost-of-living support package and is a welcome boost for those struggling to keep up with essentials like food, fuel, rent, and utilities.
Supplements You May Be Eligible For
JobSeeker recipients can also receive extra financial support depending on their situation. These include:
Rent Assistance
If you’re renting privately, you could get up to $188.20 per fortnight depending on your rent amount and household composition.
Energy Supplement
Included automatically to help cover energy bills.
Pharmaceutical Allowance
Support for out-of-pocket medication costs for those with ongoing health issues.
Remote Area Allowance
Extra payments if you live in a remote or regional part of Australia.
Who Can Get the JobSeeker Payment?
To be eligible for the JobSeeker Payment, you must meet the following criteria:
- Aged 22 years or older but below Age Pension age
- Unemployed or temporarily unable to work due to illness/injury
- Meet residency rules (Australian citizen, permanent resident, or specific visa holder)
- Pass the income and assets test
- Agree to mutual obligation requirements
What Are Mutual Obligations?
To keep receiving JobSeeker, you’ll need to meet Centrelink’s mutual obligations, which typically include:
- Actively looking for work and applying for jobs
- Attending appointments with a job provider or Workforce Australia
- Participating in training, volunteering, or skills programs if required
- Reporting your income every fortnight via myGov or the Express Plus Centrelink app
Failure to meet obligations could result in payment delays, suspensions, or reduced amounts. If you’re experiencing hardship, you can apply for a temporary exemption.
How to Apply for JobSeeker in April 2025
Applying is straightforward and can be done entirely online through myGov. Here’s how:
Step-by-Step Guide:
- Link Centrelink to myGov
- Go to my.gov.au
- Sign in or create an account
- Link Centrelink using your CRN (Customer Reference Number)
- Start Your Claim
- Navigate to “Payments and Claims”
- Select “JobSeeker Payment”
- Complete the online application
- Submit Supporting Documents You may need to provide:
- ID (e.g., passport, driver’s license)
- Medical certificates (if applicable)
- Separation certificates or payslips
- Rent agreements or bills (for Rent Assistance)
- Track Your Claim
- Most claims are processed within 21 days
- You’ll be updated via your myGov inbox
Why the April 2025 Bonus Matters
With the cost of living continuing to rise from groceries to gas this $400 top-up is a much-needed cushion for Australians relying on income support. It’s not just JobSeeker recipients who benefit either; the bonus also applies to:
- Parenting Payment recipients
- Youth Allowance recipients
- Family Tax Benefit households
This move by the government highlights a growing recognition that welfare recipients are being hit the hardest by current economic pressures.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. How much can I receive from JobSeeker in April 2025?
Depending on your situation, payments range from $715 to $1,030 per fortnight, plus eligible supplements.
2. Do I need to apply for the $400 bonus?
No. It will be paid automatically if you’re receiving JobSeeker as of 31 March 2025.
3. Can students receive JobSeeker?
Typically no. Most full-time students may be eligible for Youth Allowance, Austudy, or ABSTUDY instead.
4. What if I start working while on JobSeeker?
You must report your income. If you earn above a certain threshold, your payment may be reduced or paused.
5. Is JobSeeker taxable income?
Yes. You’ll receive a payment summary from Centrelink to include in your tax return.
Final Thoughts
The April 2025 JobSeeker Payment, combined with the $400 one-off bonus, offers much-needed financial relief for Australians doing it tough. Whether you’re facing short-term unemployment or managing health issues, JobSeeker is designed to help you stay afloat while getting back on your feet.
- Stay informed
- Meet your obligations
- Apply through myGov
For full details or to make a claim, visit the official Services Australia JobSeeker Payment page.