The government usually adjusts all benefit rates once a year, on 1 April.
Upcoming changes to benefit rates
In May 2021, the government announced an increase of benefit rates. They will be increased over two stages: On 1 July 2021 all main benefits will increase by $20 per adult per week. This will happen automatically so you don’t need to do anything.
On 1 April 2022, all main benefits will further increase to levels recommended by the Welfare Expert Advisory Group in 2019.
Families with children get an additional top-up of $15 per adult a week.
You can also earn more money before your benefit is affected. See below for the new changes to how much you can earn from 1 April 2021.