The Department of Social Services will raise rates of payment assistance for singles and couples. Singles will receive the maximum basic payment of $1,051.30 every second week, and couples either married or separated for medical reasons will receive up to $1,585.00 bi-weekly. These figures are a result of biannual indexation needed to adjust the payments for the cost of living.
Additional Support
Support payments are above the basic amounts paid. Eligible individuals will receive the Pension Supplement and the Energy Supplement. Payments will total $1,149.00 for singles and $1,732.20 for couples. Additional support payments assist pensioners to pay for utilities and other basic necessities.
| Payment Category | Single | Couple Each | Couple Combined |
|---|---|---|---|
| Basic Rate (per fortnight) | $1,051.30 | $792.50 | $1,585.00 |
| Pension Supplement | $83.60 | $63.00 | $126.00 |
| Energy Supplement | $14.10 | $10.60 | $21.20 |
| Total Payment | $1,149.00 | $866.10 | $1,732.20 |
No Application Needed for Automatic Adjustments
There is no requirement for application for these new changes, starting September 20, 2025, pensioners will receive these new increases automatically. Payment amounts can be viewed on the Centrelink online account and the Express Plus Centrelink mobile application.
Changes to the Disability Support Pension
The updates will also apply for Australians on Disability Support Pension. Recipients will also receive the same increases that Age Pensioners receive. To put the amounts they receive in the correct context, they will still have to meet the medical and residency stipulations, and they will still have to do regular progress reports to pay for the services. Assets and Income tests for the eligibility will still remain to limit ‘over services’.
Understanding Carer Payment
There is some financial relief for those looking after someone with a disability or illness, thanks to the increased rates. They receive additional benefits under the Carer Supplement, which is paid automatically every July. They still pay taxes, and may voluntarily apply to be under the automatic pay as you go tax scheme to ease their tax burden.
Who Gains?
It is estimated that more than five million Australians, both elderly and disabled, alongside the caregivers, stand to benefit from the new payment rates. The new rates tackle inflation and the high cost of living that vulnerable groups have to deal with.
What is Coming
All payment rates will be available for review again in March 2026, in line with the biannual adjustment system, in relation to quantum of payment still available to those who qualify. Support is available for anyone struggling from the designated help pages from Services Australia.
Short FAQs
Q1: What will be your approach to this problem?
The answer is no. You will automatically receive the higher rates.
Q2: Are supplemental payments included in the new rates?
Yes, Pension Supplement and Energy Supplement are both included.
Q3: Will there be another rate review soon?
Yes, changes are made to all supplements twice a year, usually in March and September.
