Maria
Australians continue to feel the pressure of rising living costs in 2025, with higher prices for electricity, groceries, rent, and everyday essentials.
To help households and small businesses manage these challenges, the government provides cost of living support in different forms.
While the one-off Centrelink Cost of Living Payment has already ended, people are still receiving rebates and state-based concessions that ease their financial burden.
In October 2025, the main relief comes through the federal energy bill rebate and additional state concession programs. These payments are designed to lower electricity bills, reduce household expenses, and give extra help to eligible families and pensioners.
Knowing who qualifies and when the payments are made is important so that no eligible household misses out on this much-needed support.
What Is the Cost of Living Support in October 2025?
There is no direct Centrelink lump-sum cost of living payment in October 2025. Instead, Australians receive help through:
- Federal Energy Bill Relief Rebates
- Eligible households receive $75 credits on their electricity bills every quarter.
- In October 2025, the quarterly rebate is applied to reduce energy bills automatically.
- Around one million small businesses also qualify.
- State-Based Concessions
- Some states provide extra cost of living concessions during August–December.
- For example, certain states like South Australia give households a cash payment plus bill credits.
- Other states offer rebates on utilities, transport, and essential services.
Who Qualifies for Payments and Rebates?
Eligibility depends on the type of support:
- Federal Energy Bill Relief
- All Australian households qualify.
- Credits appear automatically on your electricity account.
- Small businesses with active electricity accounts also benefit.
- State Concessions
- Usually for low-income households or people with concession cards.
- Some states allow applications up to 31 December 2025.
- Eligibility is based on your household income, concession status, and address.
Key Dates for October 2025
- 1 October 2025 → Quarterly $75 energy rebate begins to appear on bills.
- October–December 2025 → State-based Cost of Living Concessions continue.
- 31 December 2025 → Final date to apply for some state concessions.
Payment & Rebate
| Support Type | Who Qualifies | Amount / Benefit | When It Arrives | Delivery Method |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Federal Energy Bill Relief | All households & small businesses | $75 credit | October 2025 | Automatic on electricity bill |
| State Concessions | Eligible concession card holders, low-income households | $200–$300+ (varies by state) | Aug–Dec 2025 (apply by 31 Dec) | Direct deposit or bill credits |
| Other Rebates | Varies by state (utilities, transport) | Different by scheme | Ongoing | Rebates or credits |
The rising cost of everyday essentials has made life harder for many Australians, but the October 2025 cost of living support is helping ease some of that pressure.
While there is no direct Centrelink lump-sum payment this month, households and small businesses benefit from the federal $75 energy rebate, along with state-based concessions that provide extra financial relief.
These payments and rebates are designed to lighten electricity bills, reduce household expenses, and protect low-income families from cost-of-living stress.
If you are eligible, make sure you check your electricity bill for automatic rebates and apply for any state concessions before the December deadline.
Every bit of support counts, and these programs ensure that Australians have some extra help to manage their budgets during a time of high living costs.
FAQs
No. The rebate is applied automatically to your electricity bill if you have an eligible account.
Yes. Many households qualify for both, as they are separate support programs.
If you’re in an embedded network (like apartments or caravan parks), you may need to contact your provider or apply separately.