In September 2025, Australia’s Centrelink Age Pension rates were adjusted to reflect rising living costs. The new maximum rate for single pension recipients is now $1,178.70 per fortnight (before tax). This increase helps pensioners maintain financial stability in the face of inflation.
Below you’ll find details on the new payment amounts, who is eligible, when the increase takes effect, and what to expect in future adjustments.
New Payment Amounts & Increase Breakdown
The latest update (effective 20 September 2025) raised the Age Pension by $29.70 per fortnight for singles and $44.80 per fortnight (combined) for couples.
| Recipient Type | New Max Rate (fortnightly) | Increase |
|---|---|---|
| Single (full pension) | $1,178.70 | + $29.70 |
| Couple (each) | $888.50 | + $22.40 |
| Couple (combined) | $1,777.00 | + $44.80 |
| Transitional (if applicable) | $959.70 | — |
Note: These amounts include the base pension, pension supplement, and energy supplement.
Eligibility Requirements
To receive the Age Pension at these rates, you must satisfy several criteria:
- Age requirement: You must be at or above the qualifying pension age (currently 67 for many).
- Residency requirements: You must meet Australian residency rules.
- Income test: Your income (from employment, investments, etc.) must fall below specific thresholds.
- Assets test: Your assets must be under certain limits (which vary depending on home ownership, location, and asset types).
If your income or assets exceed thresholds, you may receive a partial pension rather than the full amount.
Payment Dates & Adjustment Timing
- The adjustment was made on 20 September 2025, and pension payments were automatically updated — recipients needed to take no action.
- Centrelink typically reviews and adjusts pension rates twice yearly: in March and September.
- The next possible adjustment is scheduled for 20 March 2026, depending on factors like inflation and wage trends.
Why the Increase?
This pension increase is part of the government’s indexation policy, designed to preserve the real value of social security payments as costs rise. The adjustment is tied to measures such as:
- Consumer Price Index (CPI)
- Average weekly earnings
- Pensioner & Beneficiary Living Cost Index
By indexing payments, the government aims to protect pensioners from inflation eroding their purchasing power.
FAQs
Do I need to reapply for the increased pension?
No — the increase is applied automatically by Centrelink.
Does everyone get the full $1,178.70?
No — only those who meet the full pension criteria. If your income or assets exceed limits, you may qualify for a part pension.
When is my next pension adjustment likely?
Likely on 20 March 2026, if indexation criteria are met.
Are other Centrelink payments also increasing?
Yes — payments like the Carer Payment, Disability Support Pension, JobSeeker, and Commonwealth Rent Assistance are also indexed upward.