These days, having internet access and the right devices is a necessity. To help households on lower incomes keep up, the Australian Government will provide a one‑off $600 Digital Inclusion Payment in 2025. This money can be used for internet bills, devices, or online services.
This lump-sum support is designed to ease the burden of staying connected—whether that means covering your home internet bill, buying a device for study or work, or signing up for vital online services. It’s part of a wider push to make sure everyone—families, pensioners and those grappling with tighter budgets can participate fully in our increasingly digital society.
Administered by Services Australia, the $600 payment will begin hitting eligible bank accounts from July 2025, ensuring that no one is left on the wrong side of the digital divide.
Who Is Eligible for the $600 Digital Inclusion Payment?
Eligibility is based primarily on your current income support payments. If you receive one of the following, you’re likely to qualify:
- JobSeeker Payment
- Youth Allowance
- Parenting Payment
- Disability Support Pension
- Carer Payment
- Age Pension
- Family Tax Benefit (Part A or Part B)
Other eligibility requirements include:
- Residency: You must be an Australian resident and living in Australia when the payment is made.
- Digital exclusion risk: Priority may be given to households without reliable internet access or devices.
Note: You do not need to be tech-savvy to qualify. This payment is specifically designed for those who are digitally excluded or facing digital hardship.
Also Check: $1,000 Family Tax Benefit Top‑Up Arriving April 2025: Who’s Eligible and How to Claim
How to Claim the $600 Payment
For most people, no application is required. If you’re already receiving an eligible Centrelink or Veterans Affairs payment, Services Australia will deposit the $600 automatically.
However, if your circumstances have recently changed or you think you might qualify but aren’t receiving any payments yet, here’s how to check:
- Log in to myGov
Head to my.gov.au and sign in with your credentials. - Go to Centrelink
From the dashboard, select “Centrelink” and go to “Payments and Claims.” - Check your details
Make sure your income, contact information, and banking details are up to date. - Submit a claim (if needed)
If you’re not yet on an eligible payment, you can lodge a claim for JobSeeker, Parenting Payment, or FTB, depending on your situation.
Important: If you are claiming a new Centrelink payment, your application must be submitted before 30 June 2025 to be considered for the digital inclusion support.
When Will the Payment Be Made?
- Start date: Payments will begin from 1 July 2025.
- Automatic roll-out: Most eligible recipients will receive the funds between 1–31 July 2025, depending on their regular payment cycle.
There is no need to contact Centrelink unless your details need updating or you’ve had a recent change in eligibility.
What Can the $600 Be Used For?
The Digital Inclusion Payment isn’t restricted, but it is intended to help with:
- Home internet connection fees
- Monthly Wi-Fi or broadband bills
- Purchasing a laptop or tablet
- Online learning platforms
- Digital literacy training
Pro tip: Keep receipts or a spending plan to make sure the money goes toward your digital needs. Some community programs may even offer device discounts for payment recipients.
FAQs
Q: Do I have to pay tax on the $600 payment?
No. The payment is tax-free and won’t affect your income for tax or Centrelink purposes.
Q: Will this impact my other Centrelink payments?
Not at all. It’s classified as a one-off support payment and does not reduce or replace any regular entitlements.
Q: What if I don’t receive it by the end of July?
Double-check that your bank details are up to date in your myGov account. If everything looks correct and you still haven’t received it, contact Centrelink.
Q: Can I use this money for something other than tech expenses?
While the payment is intended to support digital access, it’s not policed—meaning you won’t be penalized if it helps you catch up on other essential bills.