Centrelink Loans
We could help get your Centrelink loan application approved, quickly and easily - apply with no extra marks on your credit file!
We are here to help get your application for a home loan on Centrelink* approved. We are experts in alternative home loan finance solutions.
Apply with us:
* Rapid Finance is not affiliated with Centrelink or Services Australia, but may be able to assist those in receipt of Centrelink benefits. Eligibility to meet income requirements depends on your overall profile, including income from Centrelink benefits, employment, another verifiable source, or a partner’s income if added to the loan.
1 Approval is subject to an applicant's overall profile. Your application will undergo a credit check, but only at the final stage, if we have found a lender looking to accept your application.
Disclaimer: Applicants who receive Centrelink payments as their only source of income are generally unlikely to qualify for a home loan. Additional income or the inclusion of a partner (with some kind of working income) on the application is usually required to meet affordability criteria.
Centrelink home loans are home mortgage options available to individuals receiving Centrelink benefits in Australia. While traditional lenders may be hesitant to approve loans for those on government benefits, some specialist lenders and brokers (Rapid Finance) offer home loan products tailored to Centrelink recipients with additional income sources or a partner added to their application. These loans consider the stability of the benefits as income, making it possible for eligible applicants to secure a mortgage.
Some of the accepted Centrelink benefits include Family Tax Benefits, Parenting Benefits, Disability Pension/DSP and Carer's Pension.
Some benefits which are generally not accepted include Youth Allowance and Jobseeker Payment.
Disclaimer: Applicants who receive Centrelink payments as their only source of income are generally unlikely to qualify for a home loan. Additional income or the inclusion of a partner (with some kind of working income) on the application is usually required to meet affordability criteria.
Home loans for Centrelink recipients can be supported by various benefits and grants, which may vary by state:
For more detailed information on specific state benefits, consult the relevant state government websites or speak with us. Rapid Finance could assist in identifying which grants or benefits you may be eligible for when applying for a home loan.
Sorry, home loans generally can’t be approved on Centrelink income alone.
To meet eligibility and affordability requirements, you’ll need additional income from employment, self-employment, another verifiable source, or a partner added to the loan application.
Centrelink home loans are mortgages designed for individuals receiving Centrelink benefits. These loans consider some Centrelink payments as part of your income, allowing you to secure a home loan even if you’re on government support. Specialised lenders assess your overall financial situation, including your benefits and any additional income, to determine your eligibility.
Yes, it is possible to get a home loan while receiving Centrelink benefits. However, the approval depends on various factors, including the type of Centrelink benefit, your overall income, credit history, and the lender's criteria. Rapid Finance works with a range of lenders who understand the unique needs of Centrelink recipients. We could help optimise and present your application, to improve your chances of approval with lenders who consider home loans on Centrelink.
Eligibility for Centrelink home loans generally includes having a stable income (which may include Centrelink benefits), a minimum deposit, and a satisfactory credit history. Lenders may also require additional income sources or assets. Rapid Finance couldn help assess your situation and match you with suitable lenders, even if you are on Centrelink, have had credit problems in the past or even a low home deposit.
The Centrelink benefits that are typically accepted for home loan applications include Family Tax Benefits, Parenting Payments, Disability Support Pension (DSP), and Carer's Pension. Some lenders may accept other benefits, but payments, such as Youth Allowance or JobSeeker, are generally illegible.
Yes, there are lenders who specialize in offering home loans to Centrelink recipients. These lenders understand the unique financial situations of home buyers on Centrelink and are more flexible with their lending criteria. Rapid Finance works with a number of specialist lenders who may consider applications from people on government benefits. With over 20 years experience, we could work with you to present your application in a favourable light with these lenders.
When assessing applications from Centrelink recipients, lenders typically look at the stability and type of Centrelink benefits, any additional income sources, your credit history, the deposit amount, and your ability to meet repayments. Lenders may also consider your overall financial situation, including assets and liabilities, to determine your eligibility.
Low-income home buyers in Australia may be eligible for various assistance programs, such as the First Home Owner Grant (FHOG), the First Home Loan Deposit Scheme (FHLDS), and state-specific grants or concessions. These programs can help reduce the deposit required or provide financial support to make home ownership more accessible.
Rapid Finance could help identify which grants or other assistance could be available to you.
Yes, it is possible to get a Centrelink home loan with bad credit, although it may be more challenging. Some lenders specialise in providing loans to individuals with bad credit. Rapid Finance works with these lenders to find suitable options for you.
Yes, there are a number of government assistance programs available to help home loans for pensioners on Centrelink in Australia. These may include state-based First Home Owner Grants and stamp duty concessions, which vary by state or territory. While these programs can provide valuable support, navigating them can be complex. At Rapid Finance, we can assist you in understanding your options and working out a plan that takes advantage of any available assistance to help secure a home loan that fits your needs.
Yes, it is possible to qualify for pensioner home loans while receiving the Aged Pensions. At Rapid Finance, we understand that traditional lenders may be hesitant to approve loans for pensioners, but we work with a panel of specialist lenders who are more flexible. To be eligible, you’ll need to meet certain criteria, such as having a stable income (including pension benefits) of at least $700 per week, a deposit of at least 10%, and no recent unpaid defaults. Each case is unique, and we can tailor a solution to suit your specific financial circumstances.
Your credit score often plays a significant role in the approval of a Centrelink home loan. A good credit score improves your chances of approval and may lead to better interest rates. However, even with a lower credit score, Rapid Finance could help you find lenders who are willing to consider your application.
Read more about home loans with bad credit here.
Yes, it is possible. Rapid Finance offers a free credit check and could help you identify ways to improve your credit score. By addressing any negative marks on your credit file, you could increase your chances of being approved for a home loan and potentially secure better interest rates.
Yes, you can make a joint Centrelink home loan application. Combining incomes, including Centrelink benefits and other earnings, could strengthen your application. This is especially helpful if one applicant has a stable income from employment, as it may improve your chances of approval, secure a lower interest rate and allow for a larger loan amount.
Loan terms for Centrelink home loans generally range from 5 to 30 years, depending on the loan amount, your financial situation, and the lender's terms. Shorter terms typically mean higher monthly payments, but less interest paid over the life of the loan.
For a Centrelink home loan application, you'll need to provide identification, proof of income (including Centrelink statements), recent bank statements (usually 90 days), and details of any other income or assets. Additional documents may be required depending on the lender’s criteria.
The minimum deposit required for a Centrelink home loan typically ranges from 10% to 20% of the property's value. The exact amount depends on the lender, your credit history, and the type of loan you're applying for. Also see our low deposit home loans page, for details.
Yes, combining Centrelink income with other income sources, such as part-time employment, could strengthen your home loan application. Lenders look at your overall income and stability to ensure you can afford the repayments on your home loan.
Yes, refinancing an existing home loan while receiving Centrelink benefits is possible. This can be a great way to lower your interest rate, consolidate debt, or access equity in your home. Rapid Finance could help find refinancing options that suit your current financial situation.
Learn more by visiting our home loan refinancing page.
This table outlines the typical costs and charges for consumer home loans and property finance arranged through Rapid Mortgages1 . It covers fees related to assessing your application, arranging the loan and completing settlement.
There are no upfront fees to enquire or apply. Costs generally apply once you accept the loan terms and agree to proceed, with most lender fees added to the loan rather than paid upfront. All applicable charges are clearly disclosed before you commit, so you can move forward with confidence.
| Description | Typical Cost* | When It Applies |
|---|---|---|
| Rapid Mortgages Costs & Charges | ||
| Financial Assessment | Free | Enquiry |
| Credit Check Review | Free | Enquiry |
| Assessment of Supporting Documents | Free | Enquiry |
| Broker Fee | Variable | On settlement |
| Application Fee | Variable | On settlement |
| Lender Costs & Charges | ||
| Lender Application Fee | $0 - $995 | Added to the loan |
| Risk Fee | Variable (up to 5% of loan amount) | Added to the loan |
| Monthly Account Fee | $0 – $50 | Monthly |
| Title Protection Fee | Up to $990 | Optional – can be added to the loan |
| Document Preparation Fee | Up to $990 | Optional – can be added to the loan |
| Mortgage Registration Fee | Variable | Government fee – varies by state |
| Conveyancer Fee | Variable | Payable to your conveyancer / settlement agent (if applicable) |
| Real Estate Fees | Variable | Payable to your real estate agent (if selling property) |
| Loan Interest | Variable | Calculated daily & charged monthly |
| Lender’s Mortgage Insurance (LMI) | Variable (around 1–2% of loan amount) | Generally applies when borrowing over 80% of property value |
*Typical costs vary depending on lender, loan amount, property type, and your individual circumstances.
All fees and charges are valid as at 25/01/2026 and subject to change.
1. All mortgage credit assistance is provided by Rapid Mortgages (Aust) Pty Ltd (ABN 51 082 428 840), an associated entity of Rapid Finance and the holder of Australian Credit Licence 509599.
While every effort is made to be as accurate as possible, there are many factors involved due to the number of lenders on our panel. We will provide the applicant with a detailed quote and credit proposal disclosure on their individual circumstances before providing credit assistance.
We could help get your Centrelink loan application approved, quickly and easily - apply with no extra marks on your credit file!
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