Commonwealth Rent Assistance (CRA)
Written in plain language for general understanding. This is educational content, not legal advice. Based on Commonwealth Acts of Parliament, federal regulations, and official government guidance.
What is this right?
Commonwealth Rent Assistance (CRA) is a non-taxable payment from the Australian Government that helps people who rent in the private market. It is paid on top of your main income-support payment — such as JobSeeker Payment, Age Pension, Disability Support Pension, Family Tax Benefit Part A, or Parenting Payment.
To qualify you must pay more than a minimum rent threshold (set each March and September). For a single person with no children, the minimum threshold is roughly $135 per fortnight. Once your rent exceeds the threshold, CRA covers 75 cents of each extra dollar of rent, up to a maximum rate — currently about $188 per fortnight for a single person.
CRA is not available if you live in public housing, community housing where rent is income-based, or a property owned by a close relative. You must have a formal rental arrangement — a lease, licence agreement, or board-and-lodging arrangement that includes a rent component.
Payment is automatic once Services Australia confirms your rent details. You report your rent through your Centrelink online account or by calling the Centrelink general line.
When does it apply?
- You receive an eligible income-support payment or Family Tax Benefit Part A above the base rate.
- You pay private-market rent above the minimum threshold for your household type.
- You are not in public housing or community housing that sets rent as a percentage of income.
- You are not renting from a parent, child, or partner.
What should you do?
- Update your rent details in your Centrelink online account via myGov as soon as you start renting or your rent changes.
- Provide proof of rent — a signed lease, rent receipts, or a Rent Certificate (SU523) completed by your landlord or real estate agent.
- Check the current thresholds on the Services Australia website each March and September, because rates are indexed to CPI.
- Report changes within 14 days — moving house, rent increases, or changes in household composition all affect your CRA amount.
What should you NOT do?
- Don't assume CRA is automatic — you must report your rent details; it is not paid until Services Australia has confirmed your living situation.
- Don't overstate your rent — providing false information is a criminal offence under the Social Security (Administration) Act 1999 and can lead to repayment demands and penalties.
- Don't forget to update if you move or your rent changes — incorrect details can create an overpayment debt.
- Don't confuse CRA with state rent relief — CRA is a federal payment, while state-based rental assistance programs have separate eligibility rules.
Legal Resources
We may earn a commission if you use these services — at no extra cost to you. This supports our mission to make legal information free for everyone.