Domestic violence can have devastating consequences, leaving victims in urgent need of financial assistance to escape dangerous situations and rebuild their lives. In 2025, Centrelink continues to offer the Crisis Payment for Extreme Circumstances – Family and Domestic Violence, providing a one-time payment of up to $558.15 to eligible individuals.
This financial aid helps cover essential costs such as emergency accommodation, food, and transportation, ensuring a smoother transition to a safer living environment. If you or someone you know is facing domestic violence, it is important to understand the eligibility criteria, how to apply, and the support services available.
Centrelink $558 Domestic Violence Aid for 2025
| Criteria | Details |
|---|---|
| Payment Amount | Up to $558.15 for singles and $420.70 per partner for couples |
| Eligibility | Must be on an income support payment, in financial hardship, and have changed living arrangements due to domestic violence |
| Claim Deadline | Must contact Centrelink within 7 days of the change in living arrangements |
| Application Methods | Online via myGov, by phone, or in person at a Centrelink office |
| Support Services | Centrelink social workers provide emotional and practical support during the application process |
| Official Website | Services Australia – Crisis Payment |
What is the Centrelink Crisis Payment for Domestic Violence?
The Crisis Payment for Extreme Circumstances – Family and Domestic Violence is a one-time financial aid designed to assist individuals leaving an abusive household or facing domestic violence-related hardships.
This payment can be claimed up to four times in a 12-month period, provided that each claim is for a separate incident of domestic violence. It is intended to help victims cover urgent expenses while they seek safety and stability.
Eligibility Criteria for the $558 Centrelink Domestic Violence Aid
To qualify for this financial support, applicants must meet the following conditions:
1. Receiving or Eligible for Income Support
You must be either:
- Currently receiving an eligible Centrelink payment (e.g., JobSeeker Payment, Parenting Payment, Disability Support Pension), or
- Eligible to start receiving an income support payment.
2. Experienced Domestic or Family Violence
Your situation must involve:
- Leaving your home for safety reasons and intending to establish a new residence.
- Staying in your home after the perpetrator has left or been removed.
- Being legally removed from your home due to a restraining order or similar legal action.
3. Facing Financial Hardship
You must be in severe financial difficulty, meaning you do not have sufficient funds to cover essential living costs.
4. Residency Requirements
You must be in Australia at the time of the domestic violence incident and while making the claim.
5. Application Deadline
You must contact Centrelink within 7 days of your change in living arrangements to be eligible for the crisis payment.
How to Apply for the $558 Centrelink Domestic Violence Aid
If you meet the eligibility requirements, you can apply using the following methods:
1. Online Application via myGov
- Log in to your myGov account linked to Centrelink.
- Go to Payments and Claims > Claims > Make a Claim.
- Select Crisis Payments, then choose Apply for Crisis Payment for Extreme Circumstances.
- Complete the form and submit the required documents.
2. Apply by Phone
- Call Centrelink’s crisis support line at 132 850 (available Monday to Friday).
- A Centrelink representative will guide you through the process.
3. Apply in Person
- Visit a Centrelink service center near you.
- Bring identification and relevant documents, such as police reports or support letters from a crisis service.
Required Documents for Your Claim
When applying, you may need to provide:
- Proof of identity (e.g., driver’s license, passport).
- Evidence of domestic violence, such as:
- Police reports.
- Domestic violence orders (e.g., Apprehended Violence Order – AVO).
- Support letters from shelters, caseworkers, or crisis services.
- Proof of financial hardship, including bank statements and bills.
How Long Does It Take to Receive the Payment?
Centrelink typically processes crisis payment claims within 7 business days, but processing times may vary based on the complexity of your case and document submission.
Additional Financial and Emotional Support Services
1. Centrelink Social Workers
Centrelink social workers provide:
- Emotional support.
- Assistance with housing and financial aid applications.
- Referrals to shelters and community services.
2. Other Centrelink Payments
In addition to the crisis payment, Centrelink offers:
- Rent Assistance – Financial support for victims renting a new home.
- Parenting Payment – Help for single parents who have fled an abusive relationship.
- JobSeeker Payment – Financial aid while looking for employment after leaving an abusive situation.
3. Domestic Violence Helplines
If you need immediate help, consider contacting:
- 1800RESPECT – 1800 737 732 (24/7 confidential counseling)
- Lifeline Australia – 13 11 14 (Crisis support & suicide prevention)
- Safe Steps (Victoria) – 1800 015 188 (Support for women & children)
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Claiming the Payment
To ensure a smooth application process, avoid these common mistakes:
- Missing the Deadline: Contact Centrelink within 7 days of your change in living arrangements.
- Incomplete Documentation: Submit all required paperwork, including identification and evidence of domestic violence.
- Not Updating Contact Details: Make sure Centrelink has your correct address and phone number to avoid delays.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I apply for the crisis payment if I am not on an income support payment?
No, you must either be receiving or eligible for an income support payment.
2. How many times can I claim the $558 Centrelink domestic violence aid?
You can claim the payment up to four times in a 12-month period, but each claim must relate to a separate domestic violence incident.
3. What if I do not have a police report?
You can still apply using other forms of evidence, such as support letters from a crisis shelter, caseworker, or domestic violence service.
4. Can Centrelink help me find emergency accommodation?
Yes, Centrelink social workers can refer you to shelters and crisis housing services.
5. Is the crisis payment taxable?
No, the Centrelink Crisis Payment for Extreme Circumstances – Family and Domestic Violence is tax-free.
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