Rizna Mutmainah
Money & Banking

Carer allowance and disability pension set to increase

Over 936,000 Aussies are set to see a cash boost in the new year, as indexation to government payments takes effect from January. 

Australians receiving youth, student or carer support will receive a 6 per cent boost to their payments, as additional support to help them navigate the rising cost of living. 

“Australia’s social security system is a safety net that is continually strengthened and improved to support all vulnerable Australians,” Minister for Social Services Amanda Rishworth said.

“Through regular indexation, our payments are adjusted in line with changes in the cost of living to retain their purchasing power.”

For over 600,000 carers, the Carer Allowance is set to increase to  $153.50 a fortnight, while the Disability Support Pension for Australians under 21 will increase by $31.10 to $44.90 a fortnight. 

Youth Allowance payments are also set to increase between $22.40 and $45.60 a fortnight, while Austudy payments will increase by between $36.20 and $45.60. 

The new year increases are being set into motion after a $40 a fortnight increase to youth and student payment rates, which was effective from September 20. 

A complete list of the new payment increases can be found on the Department of Social Services website.

Image: Getty

Tags:
Money & Banking, Cost of Living, Carer Allowance, Disability Pension, Finance