New Centrelink Age Pension Rates Confirmed – Are You Getting the Full $1,725?

New Centrelink Age Pension Rates Confirmed: As of 20 March 2025, the new Centrelink Age Pension rates have officially come into effect, providing a welcomed financial boost for eligible older Australians. The maximum fortnightly payment for couples is now $1,732.20, while single pensioners can receive up to $1,149.00. This increase reflects the federal government’s ongoing efforts to support pensioners amidst rising inflation and the cost-of-living crisis. In this guide, we’ll explain the new rates, eligibility criteria, and how you can ensure you’re receiving your full entitlement.

New Centrelink Age Pension Rates Confirmed

The new Centrelink Age Pension rates, effective from March 20, 2025, provide essential support to older Australians. With payments of up to $1,149.00 for singles and $1,732.20 for couples, it’s crucial to understand how much you’re entitled to — and how to apply for it. Whether you’re planning for retirement or already receiving the pension, staying informed can help you make smart financial decisions, access extra benefits, and enjoy peace of mind in your later years.

Understanding the April 2025 Centrelink Age Pension Increase

Every March and September, Centrelink adjusts Age Pension rates in line with inflation and changes to the Consumer Price Index (CPI) and Pensioner and Beneficiary Living Cost Index. This ensures payments keep up with the real-world cost of essentials like food, energy, and housing.

As of 20 March 2025, the increases are:

Single Pensioner

• Base Rate: $1,051.30
• Pension Supplement: $83.60
• Energy Supplement: $14.10
• Total: $1,149.00 per fortnight

Couple (each)

• Base Rate: $792.50
• Pension Supplement: $63.00
• Energy Supplement: $10.60
• Total: $866.10 per person
• Combined: $1,732.20 per fortnight

These rates are automatically updated for existing pensioners. If you’re new to retirement, keep reading to understand how to qualify.

Eligibility Criteria – Are You Entitled to the Full Pension?

1. Age Requirement

You must be at least 67 years old. This threshold was gradually increased from 65 in recent years.

2. Residency Rules

To be eligible, you must:

• Be an Australian resident
• Have lived in Australia for at least 10 years
• At least 5 of those years must be continuous

3. Income Test

The full pension is available only if your income is below a certain level:

You may still receive a part pension if your income exceeds these levels but remains under the upper thresholds ($2,510 for singles, $3,836.40 for couples).

4. Assets Test

Centrelink considers your assets, including property (excluding your primary home), savings, investments, and vehicles.

The part pension asset limits extend well beyond these values — up to $1.05 million for couples.

How to Apply for the New Centrelink Age Pension Rates?

Applying for the Age Pension is now easier than ever. Here’s how to start:

1. Create or log in to your myGov account at my.gov.au and link your Centrelink account.
2. Prepare your documents: ID, residency history, bank details, asset declarations, and tax records.
3. Complete your application online or visit a Centrelink service centre.
4. Track the progress through your myGov portal.

Approval can take several weeks, so it’s best to apply up to 13 weeks before your 67th birthday.

Tips to Maximise Your Pension

Even if you don’t qualify for the full pension, you may still be eligible for:

• Part Pension: Payment reduces gradually based on your income/assets.
• Pensioner Concession Card: Discounts on healthcare, energy, public transport.
• Rent Assistance: Additional funds for non-homeowners.
• Commonwealth Seniors Health Card: For self-funded retirees who don’t qualify for the Age Pension.

Tip: Consider consulting a financial planner or Centrelink Financial Information Service officer to help you structure your finances for maximum entitlement.

Tax Implications

Good news: most Age Pension payments are tax-free. However, they are still counted toward your taxable income when it comes to other means-tested government benefits.

If you have income from superannuation or investments, you may still need to lodge a tax return, especially if you’re a self-funded retiree who also receives a part pension.

Bonus Payment and Cost-of-Living Relief

The federal government has confirmed that eligible pensioners will receive a one-off cost-of-living bonus of $1,900 in 2025. This is not part of the regular fortnightly payment and will be issued automatically.

It is designed to offset increased expenses for energy, groceries, and essential services.

Payment Dates and Holidays

Payments are made every fortnight. In April 2025, Centrelink will process early payments around public holidays such as:

• Good Friday – April 18
• Easter Monday – April 21
• ANZAC Day – April 25

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How often does Centrelink adjust Age Pension rates?

Rates are reviewed twice a year — in March and September — to reflect inflation and cost-of-living changes.

Can I receive a part pension if my income is too high?

Yes. Payments reduce progressively based on your income and assets.

Is the Age Pension taxable?

Generally, no. However, other income sources may make you liable for tax.

What happens if my assets or income change?

You must report changes to Centrelink within 14 days. This may affect your payment.

What if I live overseas?

You can still receive the Age Pension if you’ve lived in Australia for at least 35 years after age 16, but payment rates may be reduced.