Good news for Australians on the Disability Support Pension (DSP) – payments are rising again this October. With living costs climbing, these increases provide much-needed relief to thousands of people who depend on this support. Here’s a simple breakdown of the new rates, who qualifies, and when the money will hit your account.
Current DSP Rates for October 2025
From October 1–19, 2025, single DSP recipients aged 21 and over receive $1,051.30 per fortnight. Starting October 20, 2025, the payment increases to $1,079.70 per fortnight thanks to the government’s regular indexation process.
Payment Breakdown
| Recipient Category | Fortnightly Payment (Oct 2025) | Extra Support |
|---|---|---|
| Single (21+) | $1,079.70* | Rent Assistance, Energy Supplement, Pension Supplement |
| Couple (each) | Varies by income/assets | Shared supplements |
| Under 21 (independent) | Different rates apply | Youth Disability Supplement |
| Under 21 (dependent) | Age-based rates | Family-assessed payments |
*Actual amount may vary slightly depending on supplements and payment cycle.
Why Payments Are Increasing
The Australian Government reviews DSP twice a year – in March and September – to keep up with rising costs. This process, called indexation, ensures people with disabilities aren’t left behind when inflation pushes up the price of essentials.
DSP is made up of:
- Base pension rate
- Pension supplement
- Energy supplement
- Extra allowances (if eligible)
Who Qualifies for DSP
To be eligible for the Disability Support Pension in 2025, you must meet several criteria:
- Medical condition: Permanent condition stopping you from working more than 15 hours a week for at least 2 years.
- Age: Between 16 years and Age Pension age (currently 67).
- Residency: At least 10 years in Australia, with 5 years continuous (exceptions for refugees).
- Income & assets test: Your income and assets (and partner’s, if applicable) must be under set limits.
When You’ll See the Increase
DSP payments are fortnightly, usually on Tuesdays or Thursdays, depending on when your claim started. The new rate applies automatically — you don’t need to apply. To confirm your updated amount, simply log in to your myGov account.
Extra Help for DSP Recipients
Beyond the standard payment, recipients may also get:
- Rent Assistance – helps cover housing costs
- Pharmaceutical Allowance – reduces prescription costs
- Pensioner Concession Card – discounts on utilities, transport, and healthcare
- Energy Supplement – support for electricity and gas bills
Staying Updated
Since DSP rates are reviewed every March and September, future changes are guaranteed. To stay informed:
- Check your myGov account regularly
- Subscribe to updates from Services Australia
- Call Centrelink on 132 717 if you have payment questions
FAQs
Q: Do I need to apply for the October 2025 increase?
No, the rise is automatic for all eligible DSP recipients.
Q: Will this increase affect my other Centrelink payments?
No, it only adjusts your DSP and does not reduce other benefits.
Q: When exactly will I see the higher rate?
Most people will notice the change in their first payment after October 20, 2025.
Q: What if my payment amount looks wrong?
Check your myGov account first, then contact Centrelink if it seems incorrect.
Q: How often are DSP payments reviewed?
Twice yearly — every March and September — to reflect cost-of-living changes.
Conclusion
The October 2025 DSP increase brings payments for singles aged 21 and over up to $1,079.70 per fortnight, offering extra support at a time when costs are rising. If you’re on DSP, you don’t need to take any action — payments update automatically. Keep an eye on your myGov account and stay informed, so you always know what support you’re entitled to.