Rent Assistance is a valuable payment for eligible Australians, helping to reduce housing costs. Whether you’re a pensioner, a student, or a family receiving government support, understanding how Rent Assistance works can make a significant difference. Here’s everything you need to know about eligibility, payment rates, and special rules.
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Who Can Get Rent Assistance?
You may qualify for Rent Assistance if you:
- Pay rent, lodging, or site fees for your primary residence.
- Receive specific government payments, such as:
- Age Pension, Carer Payment, or Disability Support Pension
- ABSTUDY Living Allowance, Austudy, or Youth Allowance
- Special Benefit
- JobSeeker Payment or Farm Household Allowance
- Family Tax Benefit – Part A (above the base rate)
- Parenting Payment (partnered or single).
You won’t qualify if you:
- Own or are buying your home (exceptions apply to relocatable homes).
- Lease from a state or territory housing authority.
- Live in subsidized aged care facilities or receive certain other subsidies.
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How Much Rent Assistance Can You Get?
The amount you receive depends on:
- Your rent amount: You must pay more than a minimum threshold.
- Your household situation: Whether you’re single, sharing, part of a couple, or have dependent children.
Key Rates When Paid With Income Support or ABSTUDY
| Your Circumstance | Fortnightly Rent Exceeds | To Receive Max Payment, Rent Must Be At Least | Maximum Payment (Fortnightly) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Single | $149.00 | $430.60 | $211.20 |
| Single, sharer | $149.00 | $336.74 | $140.80 |
| Couple, combined | $241.40 | $506.74 | $199.00 |
| Separated (illness, care, or prison) | $149.00 | $430.60 | $211.20 |
| Temporarily separated | $149.00 | $414.34 | $199.00 |
Key Rates When Paid With Family Tax Benefit
| Your Circumstance | Fortnightly Rent Exceeds | To Receive Max Payment, Rent Must Be At Least | Maximum Payment (Fortnightly) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Single, 1–2 children | $195.58 | $526.54 | $248.22 |
| Single, 3+ children | $195.58 | $569.48 | $280.42 |
| Couple, 1–2 children | $289.24 | $620.20 | $248.22 |
| Couple, 3+ children | $289.24 | $663.14 | $280.42 |
Note: For every $1 of rent you pay above the minimum, you’ll receive 75c until you reach the maximum payment.
Special Rules for Different Situations
1. Single Sharers
- Rent Assistance applies to single individuals without dependent children living in shared private accommodation.
- Eligible payments include: Youth Allowance, Austudy, ABSTUDY, and more.
2. Board and Lodging
- Rent Assistance is calculated based on lodging costs.
- If lodging amounts aren’t specified, two-thirds of the total board and lodging payment is treated as rent.
3. Community Housing Residents
- Eligible if you have a lease with a community housing organization.
- Includes services such as disability accommodation, student housing, and special needs housing.
4. Retirement Villages
- Your status as a homeowner or non-homeowner is assessed based on the entry contribution paid.
- Non-homeowners may qualify for Rent Assistance, calculated based on ongoing village fees.
5. Defence Housing
- If you live in Defence Housing or receive a Temporary Rental Allowance (TRA), your assistance is based on your rent minus the TRA subsidy.
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When Rent Assistance Adjusts
Rent Assistance rates are reviewed biannually on 20 March and 20 September, reflecting changes in the Consumer Price Index. Your payment may also adjust if:
- You move house.
- Your rent or income changes.
- Your family situation changes (e.g., separation or change in dependents).
Who Can’t Get Rent Assistance?
You’re ineligible for Rent Assistance if you:
- Own your home (with limited exceptions).
- Lease from a state or territory housing authority (e.g., public housing).
- Share housing subsidies with a partner receiving Family Tax Benefit.
How to Apply for Rent Assistance
- Check Eligibility: Ensure you receive a qualifying payment and pay rent above the minimum threshold.
- Update Your Information: Notify Centrelink of your housing details, including rent amount and type.
- Keep Records Updated: Changes in circumstances like rent increases or moving houses must be reported promptly.
Maximize Your Benefits
Understanding Rent Assistance can help reduce your housing costs significantly. Regularly review your circumstances and notify Centrelink of any changes to ensure you’re receiving the correct payment.
Stay informed, act quickly, and take full advantage of this essential support.
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