Where can I find the official rules for crisis payment explained?

The official source is Services Australia. All information on this page is checked against that source and dated October 2026.

Is this guide up to date?

This guide was last checked in October 2026. Centrelink rates and rules change — always verify against the official source before making decisions.

Can I use this guide to make a claim?

This guide will help you understand your entitlements and prepare your claim, but you must submit the actual claim through myGov or at a Centrelink service centre.

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Crisis Payment explained

Crisis Payment is a one-off payment for people in severe financial hardship due to an extreme circumstance. This guide explains when you can get it and how to claim.

4 min read Checked October 2026 Services Australia

When can you get Crisis Payment?

You must be in severe financial hardship and be experiencing one of the following:

Domestic or family violence (had to leave your home)
Natural disaster (your home is severely damaged)
Released from prison or psychiatric confinement
Newly arrived migrants in hardship

Full criteria: Services Australia.

How much is it?

It equals one week of your regular Centrelink payment rate. It is paid on top of your regular payment.

How to claim

You must claim within 7 days of the crisis. Call Centrelink on 132 850 or visit a service centre. You cannot claim Crisis Payment online.