Many Centrelink recipients are being reminded that a special one‑off payment scheme will officially end on 28 February 2026. This means if you qualify under the current rules, this month is your last chance to receive this extra cash before the program closes. Understanding who qualifies, how the payment works, and what you need to do now can help you avoid missing out on important financial support.
What Is the Centrelink Extra Payment Ending on 28 February 2026
The Australian Government introduced a one‑off relief payment scheme to help people facing rising living costs. Under this program, eligible individuals and families receiving certain Centrelink payments were able to get a lump‑sum payment of up to $750. This support was designed as temporary relief, not an ongoing benefit.
The full scheme is set to end on 28 February 2026, and no new payments will be issued after this date. That means even if you become eligible after the deadline, you will not receive this payment.
Who Qualifies for the Final One‑Off Payment
Eligibility for the one‑off payment generally included people already receiving income support or concession‑linked benefits before the cut‑off date. Typical qualifying payments have included:
- Age Pension
- Disability Support Pension
- JobSeeker Payment
- Parenting Payment
- Carer Payment
- Certain concession card holders
You must have been receiving one of these payments on or before 28 February 2026 to qualify. Anyone who becomes eligible after that date will not receive this extra payment.
What You Must Do Before 28 February 2026
The one‑off payment is usually automatic if you meet the eligibility criteria. However, there are important actions you should take before the deadline:
- Check your Centrelink status in your myGov account to confirm eligibility
- Make sure all personal details, income reports, and contact information are up to date
- Respond to any messages or requests from Services Australia asking for updates
- Accept or confirm the payment offer if required
If your account is missing information or has errors, you risk missing the payment before the deadline.
How Much You Could Receive and What It Means
The one‑off payment amount varied by individual and payment type, but many recipients received up to $750 before the scheme ends. For low‑income households or people relying on support payments, this extra cash could help cover essential costs like groceries, rent, utilities, or unexpected bills.
Although this is a short‑term payment, receiving it before 28 February 2026 can make a meaningful difference for budgeting and financial planning this year.
What Happens After 28 February 2026
After the deadline:
- The one‑off payment program will be closed permanently.
- New applications or eligibility arising after February will not trigger the payment.
- Regular Centrelink payments will continue as usual, but without this extra lump sum.
This means you must secure your payment before the end of February or you could lose access to this support entirely.
Conclusion
The 28 February 2026 deadline marks the final opportunity to receive a one‑off Centrelink payment worth up to $750. This payment was designed to ease the financial pressure of rising living costs for eligible welfare recipients. If you think you qualify, make sure your details are up to date and your Centrelink account is active before the deadline. Acting now ensures you do not miss out on this temporary financial support.
Disclaimer
This article is for informational purposes only. Eligibility rules and payment details are determined by Services Australia and may vary by individual circumstances.