The Centrelink Energy Supplement refers to a special payment not subject to taxation and meant to bridge the gap for deserving Australians to cover their energy expenditures. In 2025, this Energy Supplement continues to provide some funds to many kinds of recipients.
Eligibility Conditions
In order to get consideration for the Energy Supplement, the individual must be an Australian resident who is either receiving a particular payment or holding an eligible concession card.
Such payments include Age Pension, Disability Support Pension, JobSeeker Payment, Carer Payment and Allowance, Youth Allowance, Austudy, and ABSTUDY. Besides, holders of the Commonwealth Seniors Health Card (CSHC), having been declared eligible on or before the 20th of September, 2016 and who qualify under grandfathering conditions, may also be eligible.
Recipients must reside in Australia while receiving benefits, though temporary absence, provided it does not exceed six weeks, will not necessarily disqualify them.
Payment Amounts and Frequency
The level of the Energy Supplement varies according to the payment received or personal circumstances. Thus, single Age Pensioners get $14.10 a fortnight or $10.60 per fortnight for partners. For Youth Allowee above 18 years who lives at home, they receive $477.10 a fortnight while those that are away from home get $670.30. Austudy may be paid up to $845.80 for students with dependent children.
Payment of the Energy Supplement is usually made once in two weeks, together with the main payment. However, holders of the CSHC receive it for the quarter and in arrears. Payment is made automatically with eligible payments and does not require a separate application.
Additional Energy Assistance
Apart from the Energy Supplement, the 2024-25 financial year will see the introduction of the Energy Bill Relief Fund by the Australian Government. The scheme offers $300 for all households during qualifying weeks, paid in four installments of $75 directly to electricity bills. One requirement for eligibility is that the usual residence must have an active electricity account.
Additional rebates by state and territory governments might apply. In Queensland, for example, an extra $550 rebate is available to all households with an active visit electricity account, with vulnerable households receiving an additional $700.
Conclusion
The Centrelink Energy Supplement, together with the Energy Bill Relief Fund, is designed to assist with the high cost of energy for eligible Australians. Understanding eligibility criteria and payment information maximizes the opportunity for those recipients to get the support available to them. To learn more or determine eligibility, individuals should contact Services Australia or visit their website.