What are Centrelink home loans, and how do they work?

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.

Can I get a home loan if I’m receiving Centrelink benefits?

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.

What are the eligibility criteria for Centrelink home loans?

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 can 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.

Which Centrelink benefits are accepted for home loan applications?

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.

Are there specific lenders who specialise in Centrelink home loans?

Yes, there are lenders who specialize in offering home loans to Centrelink recipients. These lenders understand the unique financial situations of Centrelink beneficiaries 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.

What do lenders look for when assessing applications from Centrelink recipients?

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.

What assistance or grants are available for low-income home buyers?

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.

Can I get a Centrelink home loan if I have bad credit?

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.

How does my credit score affect my chances of getting a Centrelink home loan?

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.

Can Rapid Finance help me to improve my credit score before applying for a home loan?

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 can increase your chances of being approved for a home loan and potentially secure better interest rates.

Can I make a joint Centrelink home loan application?

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.

What loan terms are available for Centrelink home loans?

Loan terms for Centrelink home loans can 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.

What documents do I need to provide for a Centrelink home loan application?

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.

What is the minimum deposit required for a Centrelink home loan?

The minimum deposit required for a Centrelink home loan typically ranges from 5% 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.

Can I combine Centrelink income with other income sources for a home loan?

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.

Can I refinance an existing home loan on Centrelink benefits?

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 can help find refinancing options that suit your current financial situation.

How do I get started?

To get started, complete the Free Financial Assessment form at the top of this page, or contact us directly at 1300 467 274. One of our dedicated finance professionals will guide you through the next steps and help you explore your home loan options.

Centrelink Home Loans

Name: Centrelink Home Loans
Brand: Rapid Finance
Rating: 4.8 (31 reviews)

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:

No 'hard' credit check on application¹
Centrelink home loan approvals are possible
Most Centrelink payments are seen as income
Home loans with bad credit possible
Home loans for first time borrowers are possible
Home loans with low deposits are possible
Fast home loan approvals possible
Personalised & FREE lending assessment
Affordable terms to suit incomes on Centrelink
Must be a permanent resident or AU Citizen
Friendly & helpful team
Over 20 years home loan mortgage experience

* Rapid Finance is not affiliated with Centrelink or Services Australia, but may be able to assist those in receipt of Centrelink benefits.
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.

Free Financial Assessment

** It won't affect your credit score **

Loan Amount $

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Good news, based on you loan request so far, you may qualify with one of our partners.

What are Centrelink Home Loans?

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 specialised lenders and brokers offer home loan products tailored to Centrelink recipients. 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.

Home Loans on Centrelink, Benefits and Grants

Home loans for Centrelink recipients can be supported by various benefits and grants, which may vary by state:

National Programs:

First Home Owner Grant (FHOG): Available across Australia, this grant provides a one-time payment to help first-time buyers with their home purchase.
First Home Loan Deposit Scheme (FHLDS): This scheme helps eligible first-home buyers purchase a home with a smaller deposit without needing to pay for Lenders Mortgage Insurance (LMI).

State-Specific Programs:

Victoria: First Home Owner Grant (FHOG) of $10,000 for new homes in metro areas and $20,000 in regional areas.
New South Wales: First Home Owner Grant (FHOG) of $10,000 for new homes, available for properties valued up to $600,000. First Home Buyers Assistance Scheme provides stamp duty exemptions or reductions for first-time home buyers.
Queensland: First Home Owner Grant (FHOG) of $15,000 for new homes, available for properties valued up to $750,000.
Western Australia: First Home Owner Grant (FHOG) of $10,000 for new homes, with the grant applicable to properties valued up to $750,000 south of the 26th parallel, and $1,000,000 north of it.
South Australia: First Home Owner Grant (FHOG) of $15,000 for new homes, with the property value cap at $575,000.
Tasmania: First Home Owner Grant (FHOG) of $20,000 for new homes.
Northern Territory: First Home Owner Grant (FHOG) of $10,000 for new homes, with no maximum property value cap.
Australian Capital Territory: No First Home Owner Grant (FHOG); instead, there are concessions on stamp duty for eligible first-home buyers, with the property value capped at $1,000,000.

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.

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 5%, 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 5% 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.