How to Apply for Centrelink Payments
Centrelink offers payments for people who need support. You can apply even if it’s your first time, your situation has changed, or the documents you used before are expired.
What You Need
- Identity documents (e.g. birth certificate, passport, driver licence)
- Evidence of income and living situation if applying for certain payments (e.g. bank statements, payslips, rent documents)
- A myGov account linked to Centrelink for online applications (or you can use paper forms)
- Email or postal address to receive letters or messages
- Access to documents supporting your claim (employment separation certificate, medical certificate, birth certificate for children, etc.)
Apply Online via myGov
- Sign in or create a myGov account, then link Centrelink to it
- Select “Make a claim”, choose your payment type, and follow the prompts
- Upload documents or use identifiers (e.g. Medicare card, bank details)
- Submit your claim
- You’ll get a receipt and can track progress in your account
- Once approved, payments are made fortnightly by direct deposit
Apply via Paper Form or In Person
- If you can’t apply online, pick up or download a paper claim form from a Centrelink office or the Services Australia website
- Fill in the form—ask a support worker or peer to help if needed
- Attach certified copies of your identity and supporting documents
- Submit by mail or in person at a Centrelink Service Centre
Helpful Links
Tips
You are welcome to bring a support worker, friend, or advocate with you to help you feel safe and supported. You can ask staff to take things slowly and explain each step clearly. If you don’t have the usual documents, that’s okay - just let staff know, and they can talk you through other options.