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Australia Age Pension Increase October 2025 – New Rates, Dates & Eligibility Explained

From October 2025, Australian seniors will notice a boost in their Age Pension payments thanks to the September indexation update. The higher amounts are paid automatically, helping retirees keep pace with rising living costs. Here’s a simple guide to the new pension rates, payment dates, eligibility rules, and extra benefits available for seniors in Australia.

New Age Pension Rates from October 2025

The updated Age Pension rates took effect on 20 September 2025 and will continue through October. Payments include the basic rate, Pension Supplement, and Energy Supplement.

Maximum Fortnightly Rates

CategoryTotal Fortnightly Rate (before tax)
Single PensionerHigher indexed amount (basic + supplements)
Couple (each partner)Updated maximum rate per person
Couple (combined)Total when both qualify

Actual payments depend on the income and assets test, deeming rules, and residency status. Extra supports like Rent Assistance are assessed separately.

Payment Dates in October 2025

The indexation increase does not change your payday. Pensioners will receive their deposits on their usual fortnightly cycle.

  • Most people will see two deposits in October 2025.
  • Dates vary by individual payment cycles.
  • Payments may shift slightly if affected by public holidays or bank processing times.

To check your next payment date:

  • Log in to myGov > Centrelink > My payments, or
  • Use the Express Plus Centrelink app.

Eligibility for the Age Pension in Australia

To qualify for the Age Pension, you must meet:

Age Requirement

  • You must have reached Age Pension age (depends on your birth year).

Residency Rules

  • Be an Australian resident, usually with a minimum period of residency.

Income and Assets Tests

  • Income Test: Centrelink assesses earnings and deemed income from financial assets.
  • Assets Test: Assets like property, vehicles, and investments are counted.
  • The stricter test (income vs. assets) determines your pension rate.

If you are over Age Pension age but not eligible, you may still qualify for the Commonwealth Seniors Health Card (CSHC), which has income limits only (no assets test).

Extra Supports for Pensioners

In addition to the Age Pension, seniors may be eligible for:

  • Pension Supplement – included in fortnightly payments.
  • Energy Supplement – ongoing cost-of-living support.
  • Advance Payments – a lump sum advance, repaid through future instalments.
  • Commonwealth Rent Assistance – for those renting privately.
  • State & Territory Concessions – discounts on utilities, transport, and more.

FAQs – Age Pension October 2025

Q1: When will I receive the higher Age Pension in October 2025?
On your usual payday; the increase is automatic.

Q2: How much is the Age Pension now?
Maximum fortnightly rates for singles and couples have increased from 20 September 2025. Your actual rate depends on the income and assets test.

Q3: How do I check my personal payment date?
Via myGov or the Centrelink app, which shows your next 12 weeks of payments.

Q4: What if I’m over Age Pension age but don’t qualify?
You may be eligible for the Commonwealth Seniors Health Card (CSHC).

Q5: Can I get extra help with rent or bills?
Yes, you may qualify for Rent Assistance and state/territory concessions.

Final Thoughts

The October 2025 Age Pension payments reflect higher indexed rates, giving seniors more support to handle cost-of-living pressures. While the rise is automatic, it’s important to regularly review your income, assets, and eligibility to ensure you’re getting the maximum support available.

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