ember 20, 2025, Centrelink is rolling out higher fortnightly payments for pensioners, carers, and those with disabilities, offering up to $1,178.70 for singles. These increases, paired with extra relief like Rent Assistance, aim to ease financial stress. Here’s a clear, friendly guide to the new rates, who benefits, and what it means for you.
What’s Changing in 2025?
Centrelink’s payment rates are getting a boost from September 20, 2025, to keep up with inflation. The increase affects Age Pension, Disability Support Pension, Carer Payment, and Rent Assistance, helping seniors, carers, and others manage rising costs for essentials like food, housing, and energy.
New Fortnightly Payment Rates
The updated rates reflect a roughly 2.5% increase, driven by inflation and wage growth. Here’s how much you’ll get:
Payment Rates (Effective September 20, 2025)
| Recipient Type | Fortnightly Payment | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Single Pensioner | $1,178.70 | Includes Age Pension, pension/energy supplements |
| Couple (Combined) | $1,777.00 | For married or de facto couples |
| Disability Support (Single) | $1,178.70 | Same rate as Age Pension |
| Carer Payment (Single) | $1,178.70 | Includes supplements for carers |
Payments are adjusted twice yearly (March and September) to match living costs.
Why the Increase Matters
Rising prices hit vulnerable groups hardest—retirees, carers, and people with disabilities often rely on fixed incomes. The extra $29.70 fortnightly for singles (or $44.80 combined for couples) adds up to over $770 annually, helping cover power bills, groceries, or medical expenses.
Boosted Rent Assistance for 2025
Soaring rent prices are a major concern, and Commonwealth Rent Assistance is stepping up. Eligible pensioners and welfare recipients can receive up to $215.40 fortnightly (singles) or $203.00 (couples), depending on rent costs. This stacks with pension supplements and energy relief to ease housing stress.
Rent Assistance Rates
| Category | Max Fortnightly Amount |
|---|---|
| Single (no children) | $215.40 |
| Couple (combined) | $203.00 |
Who Benefits from the Changes?
The increased payments target:
- Age Pensioners: Seniors aged 67+ meeting income/asset tests.
- Disability Support Pension Recipients: Those unable to work due to permanent conditions.
- Carer Payment Recipients: People caring for someone with a disability or medical needs.
- Rent Assistance Recipients: Pensioners or welfare recipients paying rent above thresholds.
You must be an Australian resident and meet Centrelink’s income/asset limits.
How Payments Are Delivered
No action is needed for current recipients—the increase is automatic from September 20, 2025. Payments land fortnightly (e.g., October 7 and 21) in your bank account. Check your myGov account to confirm amounts and dates.
Treasurer’s Commitment to Relief
Treasurer Jim Chalmers emphasized that these boosts target those hit hardest by inflation, like seniors and carers. He signaled more cost-of-living support may come if needed, showing the government’s focus on protecting vulnerable Australians.
What Advocates Are Saying
Groups like National Seniors Australia welcome the increase but argue it falls short for private renters and those facing healthcare costs. They’re pushing for broader reforms to housing and medical systems to better support Australians over 65.
How to Stay Prepared
To ensure you receive the correct payments:
- Check myGov: Log in at servicesaustralia.gov.au to verify your payment details.
- Update Info: Keep your bank and personal details current.
- Contact Centrelink: Call 132 717 if you notice issues with your payment.
Why This Support Is Crucial
For millions, these boosts—worth over $30,600 annually for singles—mean covering essentials without stress. It’s a lifeline for retirees, carers, and those with disabilities, ensuring they can live with dignity amid rising costs.
FAQs About Centrelink’s 2025 Payment Increase
How much is the Age Pension in 2025?
Up to $1,178.70 fortnightly for singles, $1,777 combined for couples, starting September 20, 2025.
Who qualifies for the payment increase?
Age Pensioners, Disability Support Pension recipients, Carer Payment recipients, and those eligible for Rent Assistance.
Do I need to apply for the increase?
No, it’s automatic for current Centrelink recipients from September 20, 2025.
When will I see the new payment rates?
In your regular fortnightly payments, starting September 20, 2025 (e.g., October 7 or 21).
How much is Rent Assistance in 2025?
Up to $215.40 fortnightly for singles, $203 for couples, based on rent costs.
What if my payment seems wrong?
Check your myGov account or call Centrelink at 132 717 to resolve issues.