Starting September 20, 2025, for single individuals, Disability Support Pension (DSP) payments in Australia will be increased to a maximum of $1,178.70 per fortnight. This payment increase is a part of the government’s biannual indexation in regards to the Consumer Price Index (CPI) and other economic elements in order to maintain the purchasing ability of the recipients and offset the inflation. Pensions for couples receiving DSP will amount to $888.50 each, totaling $1,777 per fortnight.
Australians with a significant and permanent physical, intellectual, or psychiatric disability that hinders to them to unable to work are able to receive DSP. To get the benefits, the person must be 21 years of age or older (or under with children). Must also meet a set of specific medical conditions and live in Australia for a specific period of time. There are income and asset tests which also impact the amount of payment. Young people under the age of 21 without children are paid differently and at a rate lower than the standard rates of an adult.
Breakdown of DSP Payment Components
The total DSP payment is made up of a basic rate along with a pension and energy supplement. For individuals, this consists of:
- Basic rate: ~$1,079.70
- Pension supplement: ~$84.90
- Energy supplement: ~$14.10
This equals $1,178.70. Payment is lower for couples’ individual rates but the same components apply.
Application and Payment Process
Current DSP recipients automatically receive the increased payments with no need to apply again. New applicants need to file claims through Centrelink’s online portal, supported with medical documents and other qualifying documents. Centrelink’s nature of disability assessment means it routinely checks cases for continuing qualification.
Payment Summary Table for DSP (2025)
| Payment Component | Single Amount (Approx.) | Couple Each (Approx.) |
|---|---|---|
| Basic Rate | $1,079.70 | $813.90 |
| Pension Supplement | $84.90 | $64.00 |
| Energy Supplement | $14.10 | $10.60 |
| Total Payment | $1,178.70 | $888.50 |
Key Implications of the Payment Increase
The increase in payments is a significant boost to daily expenses for DSP recipients, but it also shows the other side of the picture: how the government supports its citizens. The increase in payment rates is in conjunction with the raised Age Pension and Carer Payments that were implemented at the same time.
FAQs
Q1. Is there anything I have to do to get this payment increase?
There is no application process that needs to be filed for approval. Current beneficiaries will receive the raised payment automatically.
Q2. I have DSP, and I understand I may have to DSP, but what if my situation changes?
It is your responsibility to tell Centrelink if you have changes to your medical condition, your income, or your assets, as this can impact your eligibility and amount of payment.
