Centrelink Confirms New Pension Rate : From June 1, 2025, Centrelink will implement a significant pension rate increase across all departmental categories under the new post-retirement structure. This update is designed to better align pensions with the rising cost of living and support older Australians, veterans, carers, and people with disabilities. The new pension rate table and changes to eligibility and asset thresholds are set to benefit hundreds of thousands of Australians.
Below is a detailed breakdown of the changes, who qualifies, how much the payments will increase, and what action pensioners may need to take.
What Is the New Post-Retirement Pension Structure?
The Australian Government’s latest retirement support initiative introduces a more flexible and progressive pension system. The structure revises age thresholds, payment categories, and income/asset tests.
Key features:
- Applicable to all Centrelink pension recipients: Age Pension, Disability Support Pension, Carer Payment, Veteran Pensions, and more.
- New payment bands introduced based on household size and income level.
- First increase under this structure begins on June 1, 2025.
- Automatic updates for eligible pensioners already in the system.
Updated Centrelink Pension Rate Table from June 1, 2025
Here’s the latest Centrelink pension rate table, applicable to fortnightly payments. These rates are gross amounts before income/asset tests apply.
| Pension Type | Single Base Rate | Couple (each) | Energy Supplement | Max Total (Single) | Max Total (Couple) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Age Pension | $1,040.70 | $784.20 | $14.10 | $1,054.80 | $798.30 |
| Disability Pension | $1,014.50 | $770.60 | $14.10 | $1,028.60 | $784.70 |
| Carer Payment | $1,040.70 | $784.20 | $14.10 | $1,054.80 | $798.30 |
| Veteran Service Pension | $1,051.00 | $789.30 | $14.10 | $1,065.10 | $803.40 |
| Wife Pension (Legacy) | $884.30 | $731.50 | $14.10 | $898.40 | $745.60 |
| Bereavement Allowance | $1,000.00 | N/A | $14.10 | $1,014.10 | N/A |
| Blind Pension | $1,040.70 | $784.20 | $14.10 | $1,054.80 | $798.30 |
What Pensioners Need to Know Before June 1
- No need to reapply if you are already receiving a Centrelink pension — increases are automatic.
- Ensure your bank details and personal info are up to date on myGov or with Centrelink.
- New applicants can start applying now, but payments under the new rates will begin from June 1.
- Allow 14–21 business days for processing new applications.
- Check eligibility via the Centrelink Pension Calculator or by contacting your local Centrelink office.
Asset & Income Test Changes (Effective June 2025)
The income and asset thresholds for pensions have also been adjusted:
| Household Type | Max Asset Limit (Homeowner) | Max Asset Limit (Non-Homeowner) | Income Threshold (Per Fortnight) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Single | $301,750 | $543,750 | $204.00 |
| Couple (Combined) | $451,500 | $693,500 | $360.00 |
| Illness-Separated | $301,750 each | $543,750 each | $204.00 each |
| Carer Allowance | Not Asset-Tested | Not Asset-Tested | $250.00 |
How to Apply or Update Pension Records
- Visit www.servicesaustralia.gov.au.
- Login via myGov or call the Centrelink line directly.
- Submit supporting documents such as ID, income proof, assets, rent agreements, etc.
- Use the online pension estimator tool to check expected payment amounts.
Contact Information for Departmental Pensions
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Will everyone receive the full new pension amount?
A: No. The amount received depends on your income and asset tests, household status, and payment category.
Q2: Do I need to apply for the new pension rate?
A: Existing pensioners will be automatically adjusted. New applicants must apply as normal.
Q3: When will I see the increased pension amount?
A: The increase takes effect from June 1, 2025. You’ll notice the new amount in your first fortnightly payment after that date.
Q4: Are these rates permanent?
A: These are the current approved rates. Future increases will be reviewed every March and September.
Q5: Can part-time earners still qualify?
A: Yes, under the Work Bonus scheme, part-time income up to $300 per fortnight is exempt from the income test.
Centrelink Confirms New Pension Rate
The new Centrelink pension rate update offers a welcome financial relief for millions of Australians. Whether you’re on the Age Pension, Carer Payment, or Disability Support, make sure your details are current and you’re aware of the new eligibility rules. For more updates, check the official Services Australia website regularly or consult with a Centrelink representative.