The Australian Government has officially announced the Australia Mobility Allowance Increase January 2026, offering a higher rate of support to eligible individuals with disabilities or permanent medical conditions. This increase will take effect from the beginning of the year and applies to all eligible Centrelink recipients who rely on Mobility Allowance to participate in work, study, training, or voluntary activities.
The Australia Mobility Allowance Increase January 2026 reflects the government’s recognition of the rising cost of transport and the challenges faced by people with disabilities in accessing employment or education opportunities. The updated allowance will assist with travel-related costs, including public transport, fuel, and other mobility support services that help individuals maintain active community participation.
This allowance remains an essential financial lifeline for Australians who face additional barriers due to mobility limitations.
Who Qualifies for the Mobility Allowance 2026?
To qualify for the Australia Mobility Allowance Increase January 2026, applicants must meet Centrelink’s criteria for medical condition or disability and demonstrate regular participation in approved activities. The program is designed for those who cannot use public transport without assistance and require extra support for travel needs.
You may be eligible if you
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Are 16 years or older and reside in Australia
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Have a physical, intellectual, or psychiatric disability or permanent medical condition
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Cannot use public transport without substantial assistance due to your condition
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Are working, studying, volunteering, or in a training program for at least 32 hours every 4 weeks
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Are not receiving funding for travel support through the NDIS
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Are an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or hold a qualifying visa
Applicants do not need to undergo a separate mobility assessment if they already receive medical or disability support and can verify their participation in approved programs.
The allowance is non-taxable and does not affect other Centrelink benefits or family assistance payments.
Payment Amount and Start Date for January 2026
The Australia Mobility Allowance Increase January 2026 will come into effect from Monday, 6 January 2026. Recipients will see the new increased rate reflected in their next scheduled Centrelink payment.
The updated allowance amounts are as follows
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Standard Mobility Allowance: Increased to $176.30 per fortnight (up from $167.50)
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Higher Mobility Allowance (for participants in job search or employment programs): Increased to $246.60 per fortnight (up from $234.00)
These amounts are paid fortnightly and indexed periodically to reflect inflation and cost-of-living changes. Payments are made directly to the bank account registered with Services Australia.
Eligible recipients will receive the increase automatically without the need to reapply or submit updated documents unless requested by Centrelink.
What the Allowance Covers
The Mobility Allowance 2026 is intended to help with travel costs associated with
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Attending a job, workplace, or internship
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Traveling to educational or training institutions
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Participating in volunteer work or community activities
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Accessing support programs for job seekers or vocational training
The allowance is flexible and can be used to cover public transport fares, fuel costs, ride services, or other mobility-related expenses. It empowers individuals to maintain their independence, build professional skills, and engage in community life despite physical challenges.
Those who transition to the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) and receive travel support under their plan will no longer be eligible for this Centrelink allowance.
Why This Increase Matters in 2026
The Australia Mobility Allowance Increase January 2026 is a direct response to the growing financial burden on people with disabilities, particularly when it comes to transport. For many, traveling to work, school, or appointments is more costly and complicated. This allowance helps close that gap and ensures that mobility limitations don’t prevent full participation in society.
Key benefits of the updated allowance include
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Increased financial support to reflect rising transport costs
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No impact on other Centrelink payments
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Encouragement for employment and educational participation
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Simplified eligibility for individuals outside the NDIS
The increase aligns with the government’s goals of inclusion, accessibility, and social participation for all Australians, especially those who are medically disadvantaged.
FAQs
Who qualifies for the Australia Mobility Allowance Increase January 2026?
You qualify if you are aged 16 or older, have a permanent disability or medical condition that prevents you from using public transport, and are participating in work, study, or training for at least 32 hours every 4 weeks.
How much is the new Mobility Allowance?
From January 2026, the standard rate is $176.30 per fortnight, while the higher rate is $246.60 per fortnight, depending on your level of participation.
Do I need to apply again to receive the new increased amount?
No. If you’re already receiving Mobility Allowance and meet all eligibility conditions, the increase will be applied automatically from 6 January 2026.
Can I get Mobility Allowance and NDIS together?
No. If you receive travel support under the NDIS, you are not eligible for the Centrelink Mobility Allowance.
Will the increase affect my other Centrelink payments?
No. The Mobility Allowance 2026 is non-taxable and does not affect other Centrelink payments or family tax benefits.
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