Checklist Housing & rent

Moving house or changing rent: what to update

Q: Where can I find the official rules for moving house or changing rent?

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

Q: 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.

If you move house or your rent changes while receiving a Centrelink payment, you need to tell Centrelink. Here is the checklist of what to update and when.

4 min read Checked October 2026 Services Australia

Update within 14 days

New address (including the date you moved)
New rent amount (weekly or fortnightly)
New landlord or property manager details
Whether you are renting privately, in public housing, or sharing with others

Update through myGov, the Express Plus Centrelink app, or call Centrelink on 132 300.

Why it matters

Centrelink uses your address and rent details to calculate your Rent Assistance. Failing to update can cause overpayments (which you must repay) or underpayments.

Shared accommodation

If you move into shared accommodation, report your own share of the rent — not the total. Centrelink pays Rent Assistance on your individual rent amount only.

Questions about this guide

Where can I find the official rules for moving house or changing rent?

The official source for this guide 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. We never ask for or store any personal information.