Centrelink Couple Payment Increase 2025: New $1,654.80 Rate from October 21

Australian couples relying on Centrelink support are set to receive a financial boost this spring. Starting 21 October 2025, the Australian Government will roll out a new partnered payment rate of $827.40 per person, or $1,654.80 combined per fortnight.

This increase aims to help pensioners, carers, and people with disabilities better manage rising living costs, as part of the government’s cost-of-living relief strategy.

Centrelink Couple Payment Rise: What’s Changing

According to Services Australia, the new rates apply to several key social support programs, including:

Payment Type	Old Rate (per person)	New Rate (per person)	Combined Total (per fortnight)
Age Pension (Partnered)	$814.00	$827.40	$1,654.80
Disability Support Pension	$814.00	$827.40	$1,654.80
Carer Payment	$814.00	$827.40	$1,654.80

That’s an increase of $13.40 per person, per fortnight, automatically applied from 21 October 2025. Recipients don’t need to do anything — Centrelink will update payment amounts automatically in your MyGov account.

Why the Increase Matters

Essential living costs in Australia have climbed nearly 6% year-on-year, according to the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS). Prices for housing, groceries, fuel, and energy continue to rise, leaving many couples on fixed incomes under pressure.

The new Centrelink rate ensures payments stay aligned with inflation through regular indexation, which links increases to the Consumer Price Index (CPI) and Pensioner and Beneficiary Living Cost Index (PBLCI).

“It’s not a huge jump, but every dollar makes a difference when you’re living on a pension,” said one Perth pensioner. “It helps us keep the lights on and maintain a bit of dignity.”

Who Is Eligible for the New Couple Rate

To receive the updated rate, couples must continue meeting Centrelink’s eligibility requirements:

Eligibility Requirement	Details
Relationship Status	Must be legally married or in a recognised de facto relationship
Residency	Must live in Australia and meet residency rules
Income & Assets Test	Couples are jointly assessed; higher incomes may reduce payments
Eligible Programs	Age Pension, Disability Support Pension, and Carer Payment
Reporting Requirements	Update any changes in income, assets, or living situation via MyGov

Failing to update details could result in overpayments or delays, so it’s important to keep your Centrelink profile current.

How to Check Your Updated Payment

You can confirm your new rate online in a few simple steps:

Log in to your MyGov account.
Select your linked Centrelink account.
Go to “Payment and Claims” → “Manage Payments.”
Review your next scheduled deposit amount.

If your payment hasn’t updated by late October, contact Services Australia for clarification.

Economic Impact: Small Change, Big Difference

While modest, the increase provides extra breathing space for over 1.6 million partnered Australians. Experts note that lower-income households tend to spend additional income locally, boosting small businesses and supporting community economies.

Community organisations have also praised the update, saying it may reduce pressure on food banks, rental aid, and emergency relief programs as the end of the year approaches.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. When will the new Centrelink rates start?
From 21 October 2025, with payments automatically updated.

2. Which Centrelink payments are affected?
The Age Pension, Disability Support Pension, and Carer Payment for partnered recipients.

3. Do couples need to apply for the new rate?
No — the increase is automatic through indexation.

4. How much will couples now receive?
Each partner receives $827.40 per fortnight, or $1,654.80 combined.

5. Will this affect other supplements?
No — Rent Assistance and the Energy Supplement remain separate and unchanged.

Final Thoughts

The October 2025 Centrelink increase is a welcome relief for Australian couples juggling everyday expenses. While the rise won’t eliminate financial pressure entirely, it’s a positive step toward easing cost-of-living challenges for pensioners, carers, and people with disabilities.

If you’re a Centrelink recipient, check your MyGov account after 21 October 2025 to confirm your updated payment and ensure your details are up to date.