Australian retirees will soon see a welcome boost in their Age Pension. Starting 20 September 2025, the Centrelink Couples Pension rises to around $3,300 per month ($1,777 per fortnight). This increase comes as part of the government’s regular pension indexation, designed to help older Australians manage rising living costs, inflation, and household bills. The new rates will remain in place until 19 March 2026.
New Centrelink Age Pension Rates 2025
Here’s a breakdown of the updated rates for both singles and couples:
| Payment Type | Per Fortnight | Per Month | Annual Total |
|---|---|---|---|
| Couples (combined) | $1,777 | ~$3,300 | $46,202 |
| Singles | $1,178 | ~$2,300 | $30,646 |
In addition to the base rate, eligible retirees may also receive extra support through the Pension Supplement and Energy Supplement, which are paid automatically with their pension.
Who Is Eligible for the Couples Pension Increase?
To receive the updated Age Pension in 2025, couples must meet the following conditions:
- At least one partner must be aged 67 or older (applies to those born after 1 January 1957).
- Must be an Australian resident and have lived in Australia for at least 10 years, including a continuous 5-year period.
- Must pass the income and asset tests, which determine whether you qualify for a full or part pension.
Asset Limits (September 2025)
- Homeowners (full pension): Assets must be under $481,500
- Non-homeowners (full pension): Assets must be under $739,500
- Part pension homeowners: Up to $1,074,000 in assets
The limits are updated in March and September each year to keep pace with inflation and market changes.
Centrelink Pension Payment Dates 2025
Age Pension payments are made every two weeks directly into recipients’ bank accounts. Upcoming dates for late 2025 include:
- October: 2, 16, 30
- November: 13, 27
- December: 11, 25
This reliable payment cycle helps retirees plan budgets and manage essential expenses like rent, groceries, and healthcare.
Why the Increase Matters for Retirees
The $3,300 monthly payment for couples provides much-needed relief as the cost of living continues to rise. Many retirees depend on the Age Pension as their main income, and this adjustment ensures they can better afford:
- Healthcare costs including medicine and doctor visits
- Utilities and energy bills that are rising nationwide
- Everyday essentials like food, transport, and housing
The additional supplements further help older Australians maintain a stable quality of life without cutting back on essentials.
FAQs – Centrelink Couples Pension 2025
Q1: How much will couples get from Centrelink in 2025?
Eligible couples will receive $1,777 per fortnight (around $3,300 monthly).
Q2: When do the new pension rates start?
The updated rates apply from 20 September 2025 until 19 March 2026.
Q3: Do singles also get a pension increase?
Yes. Singles will now receive $1,178 per fortnight (~$2,300 per month).
Q4: Do I need to apply to get the new rate?
No. If you already receive the Age Pension, the new rate is applied automatically.
Q5: What happens if my income or assets are too high?
You may receive a reduced part pension or no payment, depending on your financial situation.
Final Thoughts
The Centrelink Couples Pension rate increase in October 2025 is a vital step in supporting Australia’s seniors as they face higher living expenses. With payments rising to $3,300 per month, couples can feel more secure knowing they have extra support to cover essentials. If you’re nearing pension age, now is the right time to check your eligibility, review your income and assets, and make sure you’re getting the maximum benefits available.