Centrelink & DVA

Payment rates for Age Pension

These Age Pension payment rates are effective from 1 July 2011.

An income and assets test will be used to work out how much you can get.

Status Pension rate per fortnight
Single $670.90*
Couple $505.70* each

*These amounts exclude the Pension Supplement amount which is currently a maximum of $58.40 a fortnight for singles and $88.00 a fortnight for couples (combined).

• Customers in receipt of a pension on 19 September 2009 may be assessed under transitional arrangements and be eligible for different rates of payment.
• If you and your partner are separated because of illness, you may be paid at the single rate. Your combined income and assets will be used to work out your rates.
• You may receive the single rate of Age Pension if your partner is in prison or a psychiatric hospital.
• You may be eligible for the couple rate of Age Pension even if your partner is not receiving a pension, benefit or allowance.
• If you receive Age Pension you may qualify for other benefits.

Payment adjustments and reviews

From time to time, your Age Pension payment is reviewed. If you are getting Age Pension, the amount you receive may be adjusted because your or your partner’s circumstances change. This may include a change in your income, moving house or separating from your partner.
Age Pension is usually adjusted twice a year in line with increases in the cost of living.

Department of Veterans Affairs Pensions

A range of pensions are available depending on your circumstances. Pensions available through the Department of Veterans’ Affairs include:

• Disability pension
• Service pension
• War widows pension and orphans pension
• Income support supplement
• Special Rate Disability Pension (MRCA)
• Age pension