Australians are increasingly watching for government stimulus as the cost of living continues to rise. This comes as the government is implementing a new stimulus measure which focuses on temporary financial support of $700 to $750 through a Centrelink cash support payment. This measure is set to help those that are struggling the most. Although it is not a universal payment, the payment will reach a significant portion of the population as grocery, energy, and fuel prices continue to burden more and more people.
Who Is Eligible for the Payment?
Eligibility will depend on a person’s existing relationship with Centrelink. Usually, these one-off payments are designed for people such as pensioners, caregivers, job seekers, and families that are on income support. Sometimes, low-income earners outside of the welfare system may also be eligible, but final final decisions are still pending with Services Australia. Anyone that is confused regarding their eligibility is advised to check their MyGov account or reach out to Centrelink to clarify.
Significance
This round of cash relief is part of a wider federal effort to further assist the population with the burden of the inflation crisis. With many families still struggling to manage the relentless increase in rent, utilities, and other essential payments, a few hundred dollars are likely to be a much-welcomed temporary relief until more comprehensive policies are devised. For some, this assistance may mean eliminating overdue bills, softening the burden of school-related expenses, or easing medical costs.
Access and Payment Timeline
According to Services Australia, successful recipients do not need to complete further applications, as payments will automatically be issued to eligible accounts. Depending on the benefit stream, payments are expected to begin in late September and continue in late October. No one will be missed as updates will be sent via official Centrelink notifications and letters.
Encouragement to Reassess Entitlement and Eligibility
Officials are urging Australians not to assume they are ineligible. Individuals receiving some partial payments or family supplements stand a good chance to qualify, even if they don’t keep a close track of their entitlements. Due to the automatic nature of the processing, a quick eligibility check now may help avoid stress when it comes time to distribute the payment.
Other Outlook Beyond This Support
While the assist package of $700 – $750 is a good start, experts believe it is a temporary measure to a much larger problem of increasing costs. Economists suggest that ongoing assistance of households, alongside structural policy changes, will help mitigate deepening financial hardships.
