Millions of older Australians will receive a welcome financial boost as Centrelink confirms an increase in Age Pension payments starting April 1, 2025. This pension rise comes as part of the regular indexation adjustment aimed at helping retirees keep up with the rising cost of living.
Let’s dive into what’s changing, who qualifies, and when you can expect to see the extra money in your account.
What’s Changing in April 2025?
From April 1, 2025, the Age Pension will be increased slightly to reflect current economic conditions. The changes apply to both single pensioners and couples, ensuring that Australia’s seniors continue to receive support in line with inflation and price hikes in essentials like food, rent, and healthcare.
The updated rates include adjustments to:
- Base Pension Rate
- Pension Supplement
- Energy Supplement
New Centrelink Age Pension Rates – April 2025
Here is a breakdown of the new Age Pension amounts effective from April 1, 2025:
| Recipient Type | Previous Rate (Fortnightly) | Increase | New Rate (Fortnightly) | Monthly Equivalent | Annual Total |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Single Pensioner | $1,144.40 | $4.60 | $1,149.00 | $2,498.50 | $29,874.00 |
| Each in a Couple | $862.60 | $3.50 | $866.10 | $1,877.55 | $22,518.60 |
| Combined (Couple) | $1,725.20 | $7.00 | $1,732.20 | $3,755.10 | $45,037.20 |
These increases are modest but impactful, especially for seniors living on fixed incomes. The new monthly rate of $3,209 (for singles on full payments) will be a helpful lift during times of rising household expenses.
Who’s Eligible for the Increase?
To receive the April 2025 Age Pension increase, you must meet Centrelink’s general eligibility requirements, including:
- Age: You must be 67 years or older.
- Residency: You must be an Australian resident and have lived in the country for at least 10 years.
- Assets Test: The value of your total assets must be below the threshold set by Centrelink.
- Income Test: Your income must not exceed the allowed limits for full or part pensions.
If you’re already receiving the Age Pension, you do not need to apply for this increase—it will be applied automatically.
When Will You Receive the Increased Payment?
The new rates take effect from April 1, 2025. Depending on your payment cycle, you’ll see the increase reflected in your first Centrelink deposit after that date.
Make sure your myGov account is updated and your bank details are correct to avoid any delay.
How to Apply for the Age Pension
If you’re turning 67 or believe you qualify but haven’t yet applied:
- Visit your myGov account and link to Centrelink.
- Complete the Age Pension application online.
- Submit required documents, including ID, bank statements, and proof of residency.
Once approved, the payments will be issued automatically according to your eligibility and payment schedule.
The April 2025 Centrelink Age Pension increase may be modest, but it offers welcome support for Australia’s older citizens during a time of continued cost-of-living challenges. With new monthly payments reaching $3,209 for singles, eligible pensioners can breathe a little easier.
Ensure your details are current with Centrelink to receive your payment without delay, and if you’re not yet on the pension but turning 67 soon, consider applying now to start receiving these boosted benefits.
FAQs
Do I need to apply to get the pension increase in April 2025?
No. If you already receive the Age Pension, the increase will be applied automatically.
How do I check my new payment amount?
You can check your new fortnightly pension amount through your Centrelink account via myGov or wait for your next bank deposit notification.
Will this increase affect other benefits I receive?
No. The Age Pension increase won’t reduce or negatively affect other payments like Rent Assistance, Pharmaceutical Allowance, or Energy Supplement.