Australians living with disabilities, illnesses, or injuries often face significant challenges when it comes to transportation. Whether it’s commuting to work, attending university, or volunteering, the cost of travel can be a major burden.
To help with these expenses, Centrelink’s Mobility Allowance provides financial assistance to eligible individuals who cannot use public transport without substantial support.
With updates set to take effect in February 2025, it’s important to understand who qualifies, how much you can receive, and how to apply.
This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about the Centrelink Mobility Allowance, ensuring you can access the support you need.
Overview of the 2025 Centrelink Mobility Allowance
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Payment Rates | – Standard Rate: $120.30 per fortnight – Higher Rate: $168.20 per fortnight |
| Eligibility Criteria | – Aged 16 or older – Unable to use public transport without assistance – Engaged in work, study, training, or volunteering |
| Application Process | – Check eligibility on Services Australia – Submit claim via Centrelink online, phone, or in person |
| Exclusions | Cannot receive NDIS transport funding alongside this allowance |
| Official Website | Services Australia – Mobility Allowance |
What Is the Centrelink Mobility Allowance?
Centrelink’s Mobility Allowance is a non-means-tested government benefit designed to assist Australians with disabilities, illnesses, or injuries that prevent them from using public transport independently.
This allowance is available to individuals who are:
- Working, studying, or volunteering
- Unable to access public transport without substantial help
- Not receiving transport support through NDIS
Unlike other Centrelink payments, this allowance is not income or asset-tested, meaning you can receive it regardless of your financial situation.
Mobility Allowance Payment Rates in 2025
There are two payment tiers, depending on your employment, study, or volunteering commitments.
1. Standard Rate – $120.30 per fortnight
You may qualify for this rate if you:
- Work, study, or volunteer for at least 32 hours over a 4-week period
- Are actively seeking work through a government-approved job program
- Receive JobSeeker Payment, Youth Allowance, or Austudy and meet the required activity conditions
2. Higher Rate – $168.20 per fortnight
You may qualify for the higher rate if you:
- Receive Disability Support Pension (DSP), Parenting Payment, or JobSeeker Payment
- Work 15 hours or more per week at the national minimum wage or higher
- Participate in employment services for job seekers with disabilities
Who Is Eligible for the Centrelink Mobility Allowance?
To qualify for Centrelink Mobility Allowance, you must meet the following criteria:
Be 16 years or older
Have a disability, illness, or injury that prevents independent public transport use
Engage in an approved activity, such as:
- Paid work or self-employment
- Volunteering
- Vocational training, university, or college study
- Independent living or life skills training
Not receive NDIS transport funding
If you are unsure whether you qualify, visit Services Australia’s eligibility tool or speak with a Centrelink representative.
How to Apply for the Centrelink Mobility Allowance
Step 1: Check Eligibility
- Use the Services Australia eligibility tool to confirm your qualification.
Step 2: Gather Required Documents
- Medical report from your doctor detailing your condition
- Proof of employment, study, or training (e.g., work contract or university enrollment confirmation)
- Centrelink Customer Reference Number (CRN) (if you don’t have one, register at Centrelink)
Step 3: Submit a Claim
- Online via myGov & Centrelink
- By phone by calling Centrelink at 132 717
- In person at a Centrelink service center
Step 4: Wait for Approval
- Processing times vary, but you can track your application status via myGov.
Tips for a Successful Application
Double-check your documents before submitting to avoid delays
Ensure your doctor clearly describes your transport difficulties
Apply early to prevent processing delays
If denied, appeal the decision or seek help from a disability advocate
How This Allowance Helps Australians
Case Study 1: Sarah, a University Student
Sarah, 22, has cerebral palsy and struggles to use public transport. With the higher Mobility Allowance rate, she covers part of her Uber and taxi costs to attend university and maintain her part-time job.
Case Study 2: Mark, a Retail Worker
Mark, 35, suffered a spinal cord injury and cannot easily access buses. The standard Mobility Allowance helps him pay for modified transport services, allowing him to keep working 25 hours a week.
Mobility Allowance vs. NDIS Transport Funding
| Feature | Centrelink Mobility Allowance | NDIS Transport Funding |
|---|---|---|
| Payment Type | Fortnightly cash support | Direct funding for transport services |
| Eligibility | Based on disability & work/study | Only available to NDIS participants |
| Flexibility | Can be used for any transport expenses | Limited to NDIS-approved transport |
Note: If you receive NDIS transport funding, you cannot claim Mobility Allowance.
The Centrelink Mobility Allowance is an essential financial support for Australians facing transportation barriers due to disabilities, illnesses, or injuries.
With updated payment rates in February 2025, eligible recipients can receive $120.30 or $168.20 per fortnight, depending on their work, study, or volunteering commitments.
By understanding the eligibility criteria, payment process, and application steps, you can ensure a smooth approval process and receive financial assistance to cover your transport costs.
If you think you qualify, apply as early as possible through myGov or visit a Centrelink service center.
