The Special Benefit payment in Australia is a means-tested payment that provides assistance to individuals who are in financial hardship and do not qualify for other income support payments or benefits.
The amount of Special Benefit payment can vary depending on various factors such as your personal circumstances, income, assets, and other factors considered during the means-testing process. It is calculated on a case-by-case basis to meet the individual’s essential living needs and is usually the same as JobSeeker Payment or Youth Allowance.
The minimum amount is currently $36.10 a fortnight for singles, and $54.80 for couples, combined.
If you’re in severe financial hardship, you can get your first Special Benefit payment early. You’ll also get the Coronavirus Supplement at a rate of $150 per fortnight until 31 March 2021.
As long as you get $1 of Special Benefit, this will be paid with your regular payment.
From 1 April 2021, your payment will change to the normal Special Benefit rate for your situation.
The government updates payment rates for Special Benefit on both of the following occasions:
- 1 January each year if you’re under 21 and have no children
- 20 March and 20 September each year if you have dependent children or are 21 or older.
To obtain the most accurate and up-to-date information regarding the Special Benefit payment in Australia, I recommend contacting Services Australia, the government agency responsible for administering social security payments. You can visit their website at www.servicesaustralia.gov.au or contact them directly to inquire about the specific payment amount and eligibility criteria.