Aged Pension Rates – Australia’s elderly citizens are set to benefit from a significant increase in aged pension payments starting 20 September 2025. As part of the federal government’s annual pension review, the Department of Social Services and Services Australia have confirmed an adjustment to the Age Pension rates, ensuring that older Australians can better manage the rising cost of living. The maximum fortnightly rate for singles will rise to $1,116.30, while couples combined can receive up to $1,682.80. This increase comes after consistent demands from pensioner advocacy groups for fairer social security measures in the face of inflation, housing pressure, and healthcare expenses. The government has responded with revised thresholds, boosted base rates, and supplementary allowances to ensure older citizens aren’t left behind. Age Pension payments are reviewed twice a year in March and September, in line with the Consumer Price Index (CPI) and Pensioner and Beneficiary Living Cost Index (PBLCI). The upcoming September revision not only raises the base amount but also introduces enhancements to supplements like rent assistance, energy supplement, and clean energy advance, depending on individual circumstances. The new pension rates will be automatically applied to eligible recipients through Services Australia from 20 September 2025. There is no need to reapply. Payments will continue on the usual fortnightly schedule via the preferred banking method registered on the individual’s Centrelink account. Below is a detailed breakdown of the latest updates, eligibility, application methods, and contact channels.
Who Will Benefit from the Aged Pension Rate Increase?
These new rates apply to all eligible senior Australians receiving the Age Pension through Centrelink and Services Australia.
- Australians aged 67 and above who meet residency and income tests.
- Seniors currently receiving a part or full Age Pension.
- Couples living together or apart due to ill health.
- Those receiving additional supplements like Rent Assistance or Pension Supplement.
- Recipients who have registered for automatic CPI adjustments through Centrelink.
- Individuals who’ve set up direct deposit via Services Australia.
- Pensioners relying on Age Pension as a primary income source.
Updated Aged Pension Rates from 20 September 2025
Here is a complete table showing the revised pension rates effective from 20 September 2025:
| Pension Category | Previous Rate (Fortnight) | New Rate (From 20 Sep 2025) |
|---|---|---|
| Single (Full Pension) | $1,096.70 | $1,116.30 |
| Couple (Combined) | $1,653.40 | $1,682.80 |
| Single (Base Rate Only) | $1,002.50 | $1,021.20 |
| Pension Supplement (Single) | $80.10 | $81.30 |
| Pension Supplement (Couple) | $60.40 (each) | $61.00 (each) |
| Energy Supplement (Single) | $14.10 | $14.30 |
| Energy Supplement (Couple) | $10.60 (each) | $10.80 (each) |
Aged Pension Rates – Changes in Income and Asset Limits for Eligibility
To receive the full or part pension, recipients must meet income and asset test thresholds. The new limits from 20 September 2025 are:
| Household Type | Full Pension Cut-off | Part Pension Cut-off |
|---|---|---|
| Single (Income Test) | $204/fortnight | $2,397.40/fortnight |
| Couple (Combined) | $360/fortnight | $3,666.80/fortnight |
| Single (Assets Test) | $301,750 | $674,000 |
| Couple (Homeowners) | $451,500 | $1,012,500 |
| Couple (Non-homeowners) | $693,500 | $1,254,500 |
These thresholds affect how much pension you’ll receive and whether you qualify for a part or full rate.
How to Ensure You Receive the Increased Aged Pension Rates
To receive the updated pension rate, seniors must already be registered with Centrelink and meet the required eligibility criteria.
- No new applications are needed if already receiving Age Pension.
- Ensure your income and asset declarations are up to date on your MyGov account.
- Check that your bank details are current for payment delivery.
- Report any changes in living arrangements or overseas travel.
- Set up MyGov notifications for updates from Services Australia.
- If eligible for supplements (rent, energy, etc.), submit relevant documents.
How to Check Your Pension Payment Schedule
Pensioners can easily verify upcoming payment dates and new amounts via the following methods:
- Login to your MyGov account linked with Centrelink.
- Use the Express Plus Centrelink mobile app.
- Visit a local Services Australia service centre.
- Call the Centrelink Older Australians Line: 132 300 (Mon–Fri, 8am–5pm).
- View your payment history and future projections under ‘Payment and Claim’ tab.
What Additional Support Can Be Claimed with the Aged Pension?
Besides the base pension rate, eligible seniors can apply for various supplementary benefits to ease financial pressure.
- Rent Assistance: Up to $190 per fortnight depending on household.
- Energy Supplement: Automatically included with the pension payment.
- Pharmaceutical Allowance: Added to support medical purchases.
- Mobility Allowance: For seniors with transport limitations.
- Concession Cards: Including Pensioner Concession Card (PCC) and Commonwealth Seniors Health Card (CSHC).
Each of these supplements can significantly increase overall financial support for eligible seniors.
Special Support for Separated Couples Due to Health Issues
In cases where couples are separated by illness or aged care admission, different payment rules apply:
- Each member may receive the full single pension rate.
- Supplements like rent or energy may be adjusted accordingly.
- Reporting must be updated through Centrelink or MyGov.
- Aged care residents should notify their residential facility to assist with records.
This category ensures seniors in medical need are not disadvantaged financially due to separation.
Quick Summary of Key Pension Increases
| Component | Amount Increase |
|---|---|
| Single Full Pension | +$19.60 |
| Couple Combined Pension | +$29.40 |
| Single Pension Supplement | +$1.20 |
| Couple Pension Supplement | +$0.60 (each) |
| Single Energy Supplement | +$0.20 |
| Couple Energy Supplement | +$0.20 (each) |
Departmental Contact Details
To get help, update records, or clarify eligibility, you can reach out to Services Australia via:
- Centrelink Older Australians Line: 132 300 (Weekdays, 8:00am–5:00pm)
- MyGov Assistance: 13 23 07
- Service Centre Locator: servicesaustralia.gov.au/service-centres
- Postal Address: Services Australia, PO Box 7800, Canberra BC, ACT 2610
- Online Help and Forms: servicesaustralia.gov.au
Ensure to quote your Customer Reference Number (CRN) when contacting Centrelink for a faster response.
FAQs of Aged Pension Rates
1. Do I need to apply again to get the increased pension rate?
No, if you’re already receiving the Age Pension, the new rates will be applied automatically.
2. When will the new aged pension rates be paid?
The updated rates will start from 20 September 2025 and follow your usual payment schedule.
3. What if I exceed the income limit slightly—do I lose the pension?
You may still receive a part pension. The amount reduces progressively based on income/assets.
4. Can I receive rent assistance along with the pension?
Yes, eligible pensioners renting privately can receive up to $190 extra per fortnight.
5. Where can I check my new pension payment amount?
You can log into your MyGov account linked to Centrelink to check updated payment details.
