The Centrelink Farm Household Allowance (FHA) 2025 is a vital financial support program for Australian farmers facing financial hardship. Administered by Services Australia, this program offers fortnightly payments, business planning assistance, and financial training to help farmers stay financially stable during challenging times.
If you’re a farmer or the partner of a farmer, it’s essential to understand the eligibility criteria, payment schedule, benefits, and application process. This guide provides all the key details.
Key Information About Farm Household Allowance 2025
| Category | Details |
| Eligibility | Australian farmers and their partners facing financial hardship due to drought, market downturns, or other pressures. |
| Payment Amount | Equivalent to JobSeeker Payment rates (varies based on income and assets). |
| Duration | Up to four years within a ten-year period. |
| Income & Assets Test | Income Limit: Below JobSeeker thresholds; Assets Limit: Personal and farm assets must be under $5.5 million. |
| Additional Support | Business Planning Assistance, Case Management Support, and Activity Supplements (up to $10,000 for training and financial advice). |
| Payment Schedule | Fortnightly payments, processed automatically after approval. |
| How to Apply | Online through Services Australia or via the Farmer Assistance Hotline at 132 316. |
What is Farm Household Allowance (FHA)?
The Farm Household Allowance (FHA) is a government income support program designed to assist Australian farmers and their partners in overcoming financial difficulties caused by drought, market fluctuations, and rising operational costs.
Through FHA, eligible farmers receive fortnightly payments, business planning guidance, and financial training to help them secure long-term financial stability.
Who Qualifies for FHA in 2025?
To receive Farm Household Allowance (FHA) in 2025, applicants must meet the following criteria:
1. Must Be a Farmer or a Farmer’s Partner
- You must contribute significant labor and capital to a farming business.
- The business must be in Australia and operate with a commercial purpose.
2. Residency Requirements
- You must be an Australian resident and meet Centrelink’s residency rules.
3. Income & Assets Test
- Income Limit: Must be below JobSeeker Payment thresholds.
- Assets Limit: Your total personal and farm assets must not exceed $5.5 million.
- Farm assets (land, machinery, livestock) are assessed separately from personal assets.
4. Time Limit on FHA Payments
- FHA can be received for up to four years within any ten-year period.
- If you have already received FHA for four years, you may need to wait before reapplying.
How Much Will You Get Paid?
FHA payments are based on JobSeeker Payment rates, which are updated twice a year (March & September).
| Payment Type | Amount (2025 Estimate) |
| Single Farmer | $761.30 per fortnight |
| Couple (each partner) | $687.50 per fortnight |
| Couple (combined) | $1,375 per fortnight |
Additional Financial Support
| Support Type | Details |
| Activity Supplements | Up to $10,000 for training, financial planning, or business development. |
| Case Management Support | Access to financial counselors and business advisors. |
| Other Allowances | Possible extra payments for rent assistance, telephone allowance, and pharmaceutical benefits. |
When Will You Get Paid? (Payment Schedule 2025)
FHA payments are made fortnightly, and exact dates may vary due to weekends or public holidays.
| Payment Cycle | Payment Date |
| January 2025 | 5 Jan, 19 Jan |
| February 2025 | 2 Feb, 16 Feb |
| March 2025 | 2 Mar, 16 Mar, 30 Mar |
| April 2025 | 13 Apr, 27 Apr |
To check your next payment date, log into Centrelink’s myGov portal.
How to Apply for Farm Household Allowance in 2025
Applying for Farm Household Allowance (FHA) is simple and can be done online or over the phone.
1. Gather Required Documents
Prepare the following documents:
- Proof of identity (passport, driver’s license, birth certificate).
- Farm business records (profit/loss statements, tax returns, land ownership details).
- Bank account details (for payment deposits).
2. Submit an Online Application
- Visit the Services Australia website.
- Log into myGov and complete the FHA application form.
3. Call the Farmer Assistance Hotline
- If you need help, contact 132 316 (Monday–Friday, 8 am to 5 pm AEST).
4. Processing & Approval
- Processing time: 4–6 weeks.
- If additional documents are needed, Centrelink will contact you via myGov or phone.
FAQs
Can I apply for FHA if I own a large farm?
Yes, as long as your total personal and farm assets do not exceed $5.5 million.
How long does FHA approval take?
Processing usually takes 4–6 weeks, depending on document verification.
Can I receive FHA if I have an off-farm job?
Yes, but your total income must stay below JobSeeker Payment limits.
Does FHA need to be repaid?
No, FHA is a government support payment, not a loan.
Can I get FHA if my partner already receives it?
Yes, both partners can qualify separately as long as the household meets income and asset limits.