$1,144.40 Centrelink Pension Increase in March: Find Out Eligibility & Payout Dates

In March 2025, beneficiaries receiving the Centrelink pension will benefit from an increase in their pension amount. This increase is good news for those who are affected by rising inflation and living costs. This adjustment will affect individuals who are receiving the Age Pension, Disability Support Pension, and Carer Payment. Starting on 20 March 2025, these beneficiaries will receive a higher amount. This article provides a detailed breakdown of who is eligible, how much pensioners will receive, and when they will receive this increase.

Main Information	Details
New Pension Rate (Single)	$1,144.40 per fortnight ($29,754 annually)
New Pension Rate (Couples, Combined)	$1,725.20 per fortnight ($44,855 annually)
Increase Effective Date	March 20, 2025
Eligibility	Age Pension, Disability Support Pension, Carer Payment recipients
Official Source	Services Australia

From 20 March 2025, single pensioners will receive 1,144.40 per fortnight, while couples will receive
1,725.20 combined. The increase will help pensioners cope with the rising cost of living will, and this amount will be automatically deposited into eligible accounts.

Why is the pension increasing in March 2025?

Pension increases are made twice a year, in March and September, to help pensioners cope with inflation and maintain their purchasing power. The Australian government determines these adjustments based on the following factors:

• Consumer Price Index (CPI): This measures the cost of goods and services.
• Pensioner and Beneficiary Cost of Living Index (PBLCI): This is a special index that tracks the cost of living for pensioners.
• Wage growth: This ensures that pension payments increase with average wage growth.

With inflation constantly rising, the government has made this adjustment so that pensioners can get financial support.

Eligibility for Centrelink pension increase

The Centrelink pension increase applies to people who are receiving the following payments:

• Age Pension
• Disability Support Pension
• Carer Payment

Eligibility for Age Pension

To be eligible for Age Pension, applicants must meet the following requirements:

• Age: You must be 67 years of age or older by March 2025.
• Residence: You must have lived in Australia for at least 10 years, including at least 5 years of continuous residence.
• Income and asset test: To be eligible for full or partial pension payments, your income and assets must be below a certain threshold.

For more information on Age Pension eligibility, you can visit the official website of Services Australia.

How much money will you get after the increase?

Starting from 20 March 2025, pensioners will receive the following amounts:

• Single pensioners:
  • $1,144.40 per fortnight
  • (previously $1,144.40 per fortnight (increased from $1,096.70)
  • $29,754 annually
• Couple pensioners (joint):
  • $1,725.20 per fortnight
  • (previously $1,725.20 per fortnight (increased from $1,653.40)
  • $44,855 annually

These amounts include the basic pension, pension supplement and energy supplement.

When will the new payments be made?

The updated pension rates will start from 20 March 2025. For those eligible, the increased amount will be automatically credited to their bank account on their regular payment date.

If your payments are made via Centrelink direct deposit, You will see the new rate in the first payment after 20 March 2025.

It is important to note that the fortnightly payment period remains unchanged, only the payment amount is increased.

How to apply for the Age Pension?

If you are not currently receiving the Age Pension but you think you may be eligible, follow these steps to apply:

Check your eligibility: Use the Age Pension calculator available on the Services Australia website to confirm whether you are eligible.

• Get your documents ready:
  • Proof of age (such as a birth certificate or passport)
  • Proof of residence (such as a visa or citizenship certificate)
  • Information about your income and assets
• Apply online or in person:
  • Online: Log into myGov and submit your application.
  • In person: Visit your nearest Centrelink office.
  • Wait for approval: The application process usually takes several weeks, and you will receive a letter from Centrelink when your application has been processed.

Conclusion

The Centrelink pension increase in March 2025 is a welcome change for Australian pensioners, providing financial relief in the face of rising living costs. With the new rates effective from 20 March 2025, pensioners receiving the Age Pension, Disability Support Pension and Carer Payment will see an increase in their fortnightly payments.

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