The Australian government has confirmed an increase in the Centrelink Age Pension for 2025, offering much-needed relief to seniors facing rising living costs. This annual adjustment ensures that pension payments keep pace with inflation and the cost of living index.
If you’re a pensioner or planning to apply for the Age Pension, here’s everything you need to know about the new rates, eligibility criteria, and payment schedule.
Rates
Centrelink adjusts the Age Pension twice a year, in March and September, based on inflation and wage growth. While the official 2025 rates have not yet been announced, we can estimate the increase based on previous trends.
Age Pension Rates
| Category | Fortnightly Payment (2024) |
|---|---|
| Single Pensioners | $1,002.50 (including supplements) |
| Couples (each) | $755.70 (including supplements) |
With the expected 2025 increase, pensioners can anticipate a modest rise in payments to help with increasing expenses. The Department of Social Services will confirm the new rates before they take effect.
Eligibility
To qualify for the 2025 Centrelink Age Pension, you must meet the following criteria:
Age Requirement
- You must be at least 67 years old.
Residency Requirement
- You must be an Australian citizen or a permanent resident for at least 10 years.
Income & Assets Test
- The Age Pension is means-tested, meaning your income and assets determine the payment amount you receive.
Payment Schedule
Pension increases follow the usual biannual adjustment schedule:
- March 2025 (First half of the year)
- September 2025 (Second half of the year)
If you’re already receiving the Age Pension, you don’t need to do anything—the increase will be automatically applied to your payments.
How to Check
To find out how much you will receive after the 2025 increase, you can:
- Log into your myGov account (linked to Centrelink).
- Check official announcements from Services Australia.
- Call Centrelink’s Age Pension helpline for assistance.
Final Thoughts
The 2025 Centrelink Age Pension increase is expected to provide financial relief to seniors amid rising inflation. While the official rates are yet to be confirmed, pensioners can expect a modest boost to help manage everyday expenses.
To stay updated, keep an eye on official Centrelink announcements and check your myGov account regularly.
FAQs
When will the 2025 Age Pension increase take effect?
The increase will be applied in March and September 2025.
How much will the Age Pension increase in 2025?
The exact amount is yet to be confirmed but is expected to rise with inflation.
Who qualifies for the Centrelink Age Pension?
You must be at least 67 years old and meet residency and means test requirements.
How can I check my new pension rate?
Log into myGov, check Centrelink announcements, or call the Age Pension helpline.
Is the Age Pension increase automatic?
Yes, eligible pensioners will receive the increase automatically in their payments.
