Australia Lifts Social Security by $4 Billion for 5.3 Million People
Updated
Updated · Nine · Aug 19
Australia Lifts Social Security by $4 Billion for 5.3 Million People
3 articles · Updated · Nine · Aug 19
Summary
$4 billion in indexed payment increases will reach more than 5.3 million Australians from Sept. 20, with the government framing the move as cost-of-living relief.
Pensions get the biggest lift: single recipients will receive $36.80 more per fortnight, taking the maximum rate to $1,237.70, while couples gain $55.60 to $1,866 combined.
JobSeeker for singles without children rises $16.20 to $833.70 a fortnight; rent assistance and youth allowance also increase, and deeming rates move to 1.75% below asset thresholds and 3.75% above.
ACOSS said routine indexation is still inadequate, arguing JobSeeker remains about 40% of the minimum wage and does not cover essentials.
Anglicare's 2026 cost-of-living index estimated a person on JobSeeker still falls short by $502 a fortnight after rent, food and transport, while a single parent is behind by $348.