$1,051.30 Disability Support Payment: New Centrelink Rates Explained

Australians living with disability are continuing to receive critical financial backing through the Disability Support Pension (DSP), with the current maximum single rate sitting at $1,051.30 per fortnight. For many, this steady payment is a lifeline—covering essentials like rent, food, and medical costs when earning a regular income is not an option.

This figure is locked in until 19 September 2025, after which Services Australia will update rates under the government’s routine indexation to reflect inflation and cost-of-living pressures.

What Is the Disability Support Pension?

The DSP is a long-term payment available to Australians who cannot work due to significant, permanent physical, intellectual, or psychological conditions. Unlike JobSeeker or short-term allowances, the DSP is designed to support individuals who are unlikely to return to the workforce in the near future.

In addition to the base payment, recipients often gain access to a suite of benefits such as:

• Concession cards for discounted medicines and services.
• Medical and transport subsidies in some states.
• Additional support programs like Rent Assistance.

DSP Payment Rates 2025

As of September 2025, the DSP base rates are:

Recipient Category	Maximum Fortnightly Rate	Notes
Single (21+, no children)	$1,051.30	Current rate until 19 Sept 2025
Couple (each, partnered)	$888.50	Combined $1,777.00
Single under 21 with child	Rate varies	Higher due to dependent care

The new indexed rate will apply automatically from 20 September 2025, bringing a slight increase across the board.

Who Is Eligible?

Eligibility for DSP is tightly regulated. To qualify, you must:

• Be aged 15 years, 9 months to 67 years (the qualifying range).
• Be an Australian resident, or meet residency test rules.
• Pass income and assets tests (thresholds vary for singles and couples, homeowners vs. renters).
• Have a permanent medical condition that substantially limits your capacity to work.

Automatic qualification applies in some cases, such as:

• Permanent blindness.
• Intellectual disability (IQ below 70).
• Terminal illness (life expectancy less than two years).
• Severe conditions like HIV/AIDS under advanced stages.

How to Apply for DSP

Applying for DSP involves multiple steps and significant medical documentation.

1. Gather evidence: Obtain doctor’s reports, hospital records, and assessments proving your permanent condition.
2. Set up a myGov account and link Centrelink.
3. Complete the DSP claim form online or in person.
4. Upload or provide supporting documents — ID, medical proof, financial details.
5. Submit and wait for Services Australia’s assessment, which may include independent medical reviews.

DSP Payment Schedule – September 2025

DSP is paid fortnightly, usually hitting bank accounts on Wednesdays.

Scheduled Payment	Date	Month 2025
First September DSP	10	September
Second September DSP	24	September

If payment dates fall on weekends or public holidays, funds are released earlier.

Inflation and Indexation

DSP rates are reviewed twice yearly, in March and September, to keep payments in step with:

• Consumer Price Index (CPI).
• Pensioner and Beneficiary Living Cost Index.
• Male Total Average Weekly Earnings (MTAWE).

This ensures DSP doesn’t lose purchasing power when inflation rises, giving recipients stability and predictability in tough times.

Latest Updates

• The current $1,051.30 single rate is valid until 19 September 2025.
• From 20 September 2025, indexed rates will apply automatically.
• Variations in DSP amounts depend on marital status, age, and medical eligibility.
• Services Australia continues to stress that no re-application is needed for existing recipients — rate increases are automatic.

Bottom Line

The $1,051.30 Disability Support Pension provides more than just money—it offers independence, dignity, and security for Australians unable to work due to permanent disability. With indexation updates around the corner in September 2025, recipients can expect modest increases to help offset inflation.

For many, this isn’t just a payment — it’s the difference between surviving and slipping further into hardship.

FAQs