Centrelink unveils hidden support options for those in tough times
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When we think of homelessness, many of us picture someone sleeping rough on a city street.
But the reality is far more complex, and much closer to home than you might realise. Homelessness can mean couch surfing with friends, living in a car, staying in crisis accommodation, or squeezing into an overcrowded house.
It’s a situation that can affect anyone, especially as the cost of living continues to rise and affordable housing becomes harder to find.
Recent data from Homelessness Australia paints a sobering picture: between 2021-22 and 2023-24, there was a 5 per cent increase in families with children seeking urgent help from homelessness services.
That’s an extra 4,654 people, bringing the total to over 92,000 Australians reaching out for support in just two years.
Even more concerning, the number of families already homeless when they sought help jumped by 11 per cent.
Homelessness isn’t just about not having a roof over your head. It can be triggered by a range of circumstances—job loss, relationship breakdown, domestic violence, mental health challenges, or simply the rising cost of rent.
It can be especially daunting for older Australians, as retirement savings may not stretch as far as expected, and finding new accommodation can be a challenge.
Community organisations across the country are on the front lines, offering everything from crisis accommodation and food relief to mental health support and help escaping domestic violence.
These groups are often the first port of call for people in crisis, but government support is also available—and sometimes overlooked.
Services Australia (Centrelink) is a key player in the safety net for Australians doing it tough.
While many people know about the Age Pension and JobSeeker Payment, there are lesser-known supports that could make a real difference if you’re struggling.
If you’re between 22 and Age Pension age and actively looking for work (or temporarily unable to work due to illness or injury), you may be eligible for JobSeeker Payment.
To qualify, you need to be an Australian resident, meet income and assets tests, and be willing and able to work.
As of March 2025, a single person with no children could receive up to $781.10 per fortnight.
The exact amount depends on your circumstances—whether you have a partner, children, or other sources of income.
Did you know you can get Rent Assistance even if you’re not on a formal lease? This payment can help cover the cost of: staying in a caravan park, mooring a boat, living in a retirement village, crisis accommodation and boarding houses
Rent Assistance is paid alongside your principal Centrelink payment (such as JobSeeker, Age Pension, Disability Support Pension, Youth Allowance, Special Benefit, ABSTUDY Living Allowance, or Parenting Payment).
Many people don’t realise they’re eligible, so it’s worth checking, even if your living situation is a bit out of the ordinary.
If you’re in financial hardship due to an extreme circumstance, like being forced to leave home because of a fire, flood, or family violence, you may be eligible for a one-off Crisis Payment.
This can provide immediate relief when you need it most. There are different types of Crisis Payments, so it’s worth visiting the Services Australia website to see if your situation qualifies.
Navigating Centrelink’s range of payments can be confusing, especially if you’re already under stress.
The Payment and Service Finder tool on the Services Australia website is a great place to start.
It can help you work out what support you might be entitled to, based on your personal circumstances.
Financial support is only part of the picture. Services Australia has specialist staff who work directly with community organisations, sometimes even on-site, to help people access the right payments and services.
If you’re struggling to keep up with reporting requirements or don’t regularly have access to a phone or the Internet, these staff can help ensure your payments don’t stop unexpectedly.
For those dealing with mental illness, disability, or chronic health conditions, there may be additional supports available, but many people don’t know how to ask.
That’s where Centrelink’s social workers come in. They can provide information, short-term counselling, and referrals to other services, helping you navigate a difficult time.
If you or someone you care about is at risk of homelessness, don’t wait to reach out. Visit the Services Australia homelessness page or speak to a community organisation in your area. There’s no shame in asking for help—these services exist to support you.
Have you or someone you know accessed Centrelink support during a tough time? Did you find the process straightforward, or were there hurdles along the way? What advice would you give to others in a similar situation? Share your experiences and tips in the comments below.
Read more: ATO warns 82 per cent of Aussies make Centrelink payment mistake
But the reality is far more complex, and much closer to home than you might realise. Homelessness can mean couch surfing with friends, living in a car, staying in crisis accommodation, or squeezing into an overcrowded house.
It’s a situation that can affect anyone, especially as the cost of living continues to rise and affordable housing becomes harder to find.
Recent data from Homelessness Australia paints a sobering picture: between 2021-22 and 2023-24, there was a 5 per cent increase in families with children seeking urgent help from homelessness services.
That’s an extra 4,654 people, bringing the total to over 92,000 Australians reaching out for support in just two years.
Even more concerning, the number of families already homeless when they sought help jumped by 11 per cent.
Homelessness rises across Australia, with more families needing urgent support. Credit: Facebook
Homelessness isn’t just about not having a roof over your head. It can be triggered by a range of circumstances—job loss, relationship breakdown, domestic violence, mental health challenges, or simply the rising cost of rent.
It can be especially daunting for older Australians, as retirement savings may not stretch as far as expected, and finding new accommodation can be a challenge.
Community organisations across the country are on the front lines, offering everything from crisis accommodation and food relief to mental health support and help escaping domestic violence.
These groups are often the first port of call for people in crisis, but government support is also available—and sometimes overlooked.
Services Australia (Centrelink) is a key player in the safety net for Australians doing it tough.
While many people know about the Age Pension and JobSeeker Payment, there are lesser-known supports that could make a real difference if you’re struggling.
If you’re between 22 and Age Pension age and actively looking for work (or temporarily unable to work due to illness or injury), you may be eligible for JobSeeker Payment.
To qualify, you need to be an Australian resident, meet income and assets tests, and be willing and able to work.
As of March 2025, a single person with no children could receive up to $781.10 per fortnight.
Did you know you can get Rent Assistance even if you’re not on a formal lease? This payment can help cover the cost of: staying in a caravan park, mooring a boat, living in a retirement village, crisis accommodation and boarding houses
Rent Assistance is paid alongside your principal Centrelink payment (such as JobSeeker, Age Pension, Disability Support Pension, Youth Allowance, Special Benefit, ABSTUDY Living Allowance, or Parenting Payment).
Many people don’t realise they’re eligible, so it’s worth checking, even if your living situation is a bit out of the ordinary.
If you’re in financial hardship due to an extreme circumstance, like being forced to leave home because of a fire, flood, or family violence, you may be eligible for a one-off Crisis Payment.
This can provide immediate relief when you need it most. There are different types of Crisis Payments, so it’s worth visiting the Services Australia website to see if your situation qualifies.
The Payment and Service Finder tool on the Services Australia website is a great place to start.
It can help you work out what support you might be entitled to, based on your personal circumstances.
Financial support is only part of the picture. Services Australia has specialist staff who work directly with community organisations, sometimes even on-site, to help people access the right payments and services.
If you’re struggling to keep up with reporting requirements or don’t regularly have access to a phone or the Internet, these staff can help ensure your payments don’t stop unexpectedly.
For those dealing with mental illness, disability, or chronic health conditions, there may be additional supports available, but many people don’t know how to ask.
If you or someone you care about is at risk of homelessness, don’t wait to reach out. Visit the Services Australia homelessness page or speak to a community organisation in your area. There’s no shame in asking for help—these services exist to support you.
Read more: ATO warns 82 per cent of Aussies make Centrelink payment mistake
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