Australia’s 2025 Aged Pension Boost:The 2025 Aged Pension Boost in Australia is officially in effect, providing a welcomed increase in payments for eligible retirees. This adjustment reflects both inflation and the rising cost of living, ensuring older Australians can maintain financial stability during retirement. If you’re receiving the Age Pension or planning to apply soon, understanding the new payment amounts, eligibility requirements, and how to apply can make a big difference.
Whether you’re a retiree, caregiver, or financial advisor, this guide breaks down the changes clearly, offering practical advice, government-sourced data, and easy-to-follow steps for navigating the system in 2025.
Australia’s 2025 Aged Pension Boost
| Feature | 2025 Details |
|---|---|
| Single Pension Rate | $1,149.00 per fortnight ($29,874/year) |
| Couples (combined) | $1,732.20 per fortnight ($45,037/year) |
| Next Scheduled Indexation | 20 September 2025 |
| Age Requirement | 67 years old (as of July 2023) |
| Income Threshold | Single: $212/fortnight for full pension; up to $2,510/fortnight part pension |
| Assets Threshold | Single homeowner: full pension up to $314,000; part pension up to $697,000 |
| Work Bonus | $300/fortnight excluded from income test; bankable up to $11,800 |
| Payment Frequency | Fortnightly (next increase on 20 September 2025) |
| Official Site | Services Australia |
The 2025 Aged Pension Boost is an important step in keeping Australia’s retirees secure and financially supported. By staying up-to-date with eligibility requirements, income limits, and available bonuses, you can make informed decisions and avoid common pitfalls.
The Age Pension is more than a payment; it’s a safety net, a lifeline, and recognition of a lifetime of contribution to society. Don’t miss out—apply early, stay eligible, and make the most of your entitlements.
What Is the Age Pension in Australia?
The Age Pension is a government-provided income support payment for older Australians who meet age, residency, income, and assets tests. It helps eligible individuals maintain a basic standard of living in retirement, especially when they don’t have sufficient superannuation or savings.
The pension consists of a base rate, plus supplements such as the Energy Supplement and Pension Supplement. Payments are reviewed twice annually—in March and September—to account for inflation and changes in living costs.
Why the 2025 Aged Pension Boost Matters
Inflation has significantly impacted day-to-day expenses for Australian seniors, from grocery costs to energy bills. Recognising this, the government implemented a 0.4% increase in March 2025. For many retirees, this translates to an extra $4.60 per fortnight for singles, and $7.00 for couples combined.
Example:
- A single pensioner receiving $1,144.40 per fortnight now receives $1,149.00.
- A couple previously getting $1,725.20 now receives $1,732.20 combined.
This update ensures that the Age Pension keeps pace with rising costs, providing a crucial buffer for low-income retirees.
Who Is Eligible for the Aged Pension in 2025?
Eligibility hinges on four main criteria:
1. Age
- You must be 67 years old or older.
- If you turned 67 on or after 1 July 2023, you meet the age requirement.
2. Residency
- You must be an Australian resident and have lived in Australia for at least 10 years, with at least 5 years continuous residency.
3. Income Test
- You can earn up to $212 per fortnight (single) or $372 combined (couples) and still receive a full pension.
- Part pensions are payable if income is below $2,510/fortnight for singles or $3,836.40/fortnight for couples.
4. Assets Test
- Full pension for:
- Single homeowners: assets under $314,000
- Couple homeowners: assets under $470,000
- Part pension if assets are below $697,000 (single) or $1,047,500 (couple)
Understanding the Work Bonus
The Work Bonus encourages older Australians to continue part-time work without immediately affecting their pension.
- Up to $300 per fortnight in employment income is excluded from the income test.
- Unused amounts accumulate in a Work Bonus income bank (up to $11,800).
This is especially helpful for retirees who want to supplement their income without risking reductions to their pension payments.
When Will You Get Paid? Aged Pension Payment Dates in 2025
Age Pension payments are made every two weeks, directly into your bank account. Here are the confirmed and projected payment dates for 2025:
- 6 February
- 20 February
- 6 March
- 20 March
- 3 April
- 17 April
- 1 May
- 15 May
- 29 May
- 12 June
- 26 June
- 10 July
- 24 July
- 7 August
- 21 August
- 4 September
- 18 September (next indexation)
- 2 October
- 16 October
- 30 October
- 13 November
- 27 November
- 11 December
- 25 December (subject to holiday rescheduling)
Dates are subject to change and may shift due to weekends or public holidays. Always check your Services Australia dashboard for updates.
Apply for the Age Pension in 2025
- Check Your Eligibility: Use the Age Pension Eligibility Tool to confirm your status.
- Set Up a myGov Account:
- Go to myGov
- Link your Centrelink account
- Complete Your Application: Provide documents including:
- Proof of age (passport or birth certificate)
- Proof of residency
- Details of income, savings, and superannuation
- Submit and Track Your Claim:
- Use myGov or the Express Plus Centrelink app
- Processing time: 6 to 8 weeks (varies)
What Else Do You Get With the Age Pension?
Beyond the pension payment itself, recipients may be eligible for additional concessions and discounts:
Pension Concession Card
Gives access to:
- Bulk-billed doctor visits
- Discounted prescription medicines
- Lower utility bills (state-based)
- Public transport concessions
Rent Assistance
- Up to $184.80 per fortnight for singles
- Up to $174 per couple (combined)
Commonwealth Seniors Health Card (CSHC)
- If you don’t qualify for the Age Pension but meet income criteria, you may still receive this card.
- Offers cheaper medicine and health services.
FAQs On Australia’s 2025 Aged Pension Boost
Is the Age Pension taxed?
No. The Age Pension is tax-free if it’s your only income.
Can I travel overseas and still receive my pension?
Yes, but rules apply:
- Short trips: No impact if you’re away less than 6 weeks.
- Long trips: Payments may reduce after 26 weeks overseas.
What if I have superannuation?
Super is considered an asset once you reach pension age and can affect your eligibility or payment rate.
Do I need to reapply each year?
No. Your eligibility is automatically reviewed, but you must report changes to income or assets.
What happens if I miss a payment?
Call Centrelink immediately at 132 300 or visit a service centre. Payments can often be backdated if eligible.
