The Disability Support Pension (DSP) remains one of the most important financial support systems in Australia, designed to help people living with long-term or permanent disabilities.
In September 2025, a significant update arrives, with the maximum payment for a single adult now reaching $1,144 per fortnight.
This increase is part of the government’s cost-of-living adjustments that occur twice each year.
This article explains what has changed with the DSP in 2025, who qualifies, how much you can receive, and the application process.
What’s New in 2025?
The most notable change is the fortnightly maximum rate for a single DSP recipient, which has risen to $1,144.
Couples also see adjusted rates, with each partner eligible for $866.10 per fortnight, bringing the combined total to $1,732.20.
These adjustments take effect on 20 March and 20 September every year.
The September 2025 update provides an additional boost to recipients, ensuring that payment levels reflect rising inflation and wage costs.
Disability Support Pension Payment Rates in 2025 (Per Fortnight)
| Recipient Type | Payment Amount |
|---|---|
| Single (21 years and older) | $1,144 |
| Couple (each partner) | $866.10 |
| Couple combined total | $1,732.20 |
| Couple separated due to illness | $1,149 each |
Why Has the Disability Support Pension Changed?
Every March and September, indexation adjustments are applied to pensions and allowances. These changes ensure that people receiving the DSP do not fall behind the cost of living.
In September 2025, the rise means:
- Singles get an increase of almost $30 per fortnight.
- Couples get around $22 more per partner per fortnight.
This adjustment is a necessary step to help Australians living with disabilities manage everyday expenses such as rent, groceries, transport, and medical care.
Who Is Eligible for DSP in 2025?
Eligibility for the $1,144 Disability Support Pension 2025 requires meeting strict criteria:
- Age: Must be between 16 years and the Age Pension age.
- Residency: Must be an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or protected person who has lived in Australia for at least 10 years.
- Medical Condition: Must have a permanent physical, intellectual, or psychiatric condition expected to last at least two years.
- Work Capacity: Must be unable to work more than 15 hours a week, even with rehabilitation, for the next two years.
- Impairment Rating: Medical conditions are assessed against impairment tables, with a minimum of 20 points required.
- Income and Assets Test: Applicants and their partners must meet the financial eligibility thresholds.
How to Claim the Disability Support Pension
If you meet the eligibility requirements, you can claim the DSP through the following steps:
- Prepare documents: Collect medical reports, income statements, and proof of residency.
- Log into MyGov: Use your MyGov account linked to Centrelink to access the claim application.
- Submit application: Fill in your personal and medical details, upload supporting documents, and submit your claim.
- Track progress: Monitor the status of your application through MyGov.
- Payment approval: Once approved, payments will be deposited into your nominated bank account every fortnight.
Key Details of DSP in 2025
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Country | Australia |
| Authority | Services Australia |
| Maximum Single Payment | $1,144 per fortnight |
| Maximum Couple Combined | $1,732.20 per fortnight |
| Adjustment Months | March and September |
| Eligibility Age | 16 to Age Pension age |
| Residency Requirement | 10 years in Australia |
| Medical Requirement | Permanent impairment and reduced work capacity |
| Application Process | Online via MyGov linked to Centrelink |
The new $1,144 Disability Support Pension in 2025 highlights the government’s commitment to ensuring vulnerable Australians receive fair financial support.
With adjustments applied twice yearly, DSP recipients can better manage rising living expenses while maintaining financial stability.
Meeting the eligibility rules and applying correctly through MyGov ensures access to this essential payment.
FAQs
The maximum single DSP payment has increased to $1,144 per fortnight, while couples receive up to $866.10 each.
DSP payments are indexed twice a year, in March and September, to reflect inflation and wage growth.
Applicants must have a permanent medical condition, reduced work capacity, meet residency requirements, and pass the income and assets test.