Payment rates
These payment rates for Disability Support Pension are effective from 20 March 2012.
Maximum rate of Disability Support Pension (over 21, or under 21 with children)
| If you are | The maximum fortnightly payment is |
|---|---|
| Single | $695.30* |
| Couple | $524.10 (each)* |
Note: Some pensioners may also receive the Pension Supplement, an additional fortnightly payment to the base pension. The rates of Pension Supplement are $60.20 for singles and $45.40 (each) for couples.
* Customers in receipt of a pension on 19 September 2009 may be assessed under transitional arrangements and be eligible for different rates of payment.
Maximum rate of Disability Support Pension (under 21, no children)
| If you are | The maximum fortnightly payment is |
|---|---|
| Single, under 18, at home | $334.40 |
| Single, under 18, independent | $516.70 |
| Single, 18–20 years, at home | $379.00 |
| Single, 18–20 years, independent | $516.70 |
| Member of a couple, under 18 years | $516.70 |
| Member of a couple, 18–20 years | $516.70 |
Note: You may also be eligible to receive Pharmaceutical Allowance.
Disability Support Pension is subject to an income test and an assets test except if you are receiving Disability Support Pension because you are permanently blind. Any rent assistance paid to a permanently blind Disability Support Pension recipient is subject to an income and assets test.
Payment adjustments and reviews
Disability Support Pension is usually adjusted twice a year in line with increases in the costs of living. Disability Support Pension for people under 21 without children is usually adjusted on 1 January each year.
Centrelink undertakes regular reviews to ensure you continue to be eligible for payments and your rate of payment is correct.