You can apply for help under the loans scheme if you or your partner are age pension age, are eligible for a part pension (or certain other social security entitlements), and cannot or do not want to sell property.

The loan can increase your pension, up to the full rate, depending on the value of the property. It can be taken over a short period while you rearrange your financial affairs, or over an indefinite period.

As the amount of loan adds up each fortnight, it reduces the net value of your property. This in turn increases your pension entitlement, and reduces the loan amount over time.

The loan can be repaid at any time, or the debt can be paid from your estate after death.

Centrelink may advance a social security payment of up to $500 if you are entitled to a full pension or allowance, have received the payment for at least three months, and have the capacity to repay. Repayment must generally occur over six months. An advance will not be given if you have an outstanding Centrelink debt or breach. You can also only get an advance payment once a year.

Centrelink may advance an amount of up to $500 to recipients of certain payments who are waiting to receive payment from employment, or who have expenses relating to starting work. Repayment and other conditions are similar to social security advance payments.