Australian Government Bonus Payments
On 3 February 2009, the Australian Government announced the Household Stimulus Package to provide widespread assistance to low and middle-income households. The Household Stimulus Package includes one-off bonus payments for some Centrelink customers, including families, students and farmers.
Bonus payments are non-taxable and are not considered income for social security purposes.
The bonus payments are:
Single Income Family Bonus
Back to School Bonus
Farmer’s Hardship Bonus
Training and Learning Bonus
Important Information
To receive a bonus payment you must have been eligible for a qualifying Centrelink payment on 3 February 2009.
If you are eligible for a bonus, it will be automatically paid into your bank account, subject to the supporting legislation passing through Parliament.
You do not need to contact Centrelink.
Tax Bonus Payment
Work is underway so the Tax Office can start paying the Australian Government’s tax bonus. As this initiative is not yet law it could be subject to further change.
“At this stage we believe most eligible people won’t have to do anything to receive the proposed payment,” Mr D’Ascenzo said.
“By using information in people’s 2007-08 tax return we will work out who is eligible and the best way to get the payment to them.
“Most people have already lodged their 2007-08 return with us, but if you haven’t, don’t leave it any longer.”
The proposed tax bonus will only be paid to those who have their 2007-08 return in by 30 June 2009.
“Our e-tax service will remain available for those who want to do their own return online, or people should contact their tax agent.
“We will send the payment to the address or bank account people nominated as their preference for the 2007-08 tax return.