As of April 2025, the Australian Government has officially rolled out a $780 annual increase in Centrelink Age Pension payments for eligible seniors. This payment adjustment is aimed at helping pensioners deal with rising living expenses and ensuring their incomes keep pace with inflation.
Let’s break down exactly who qualifies, how much more you’ll get, and when to expect it.
What Is the $780 Centrelink Pension Support?
The $780 boost refers to the recently increased fortnightly pension rates introduced in March 2025 and now being reflected in April 2025 payments.
These increases are part of the government’s regular indexation strategy to adjust social security payments according to the Consumer Price Index (CPI) and Pensioner and Beneficiary Living Cost Index (PBLCI).
This means eligible recipients are now getting more money each fortnight than before — no need for a separate application.
Centrelink Age Pension Increase Breakdown
| Recipient Type | Previous Rate (Fortnightly) | New Rate (Fortnightly) | Total Annual Increase |
|---|---|---|---|
| Single Pensioner | $1,144.40 | $1,149.00 | $119.60 |
| Each Member in Couple | $862.60 | $866.10 | $91.00 |
| Couple (Combined) | $1,725.20 | $1,732.20 | $182.00 |
As you can see, the maximum increase across the board totals $780 annually, especially for those receiving supplementary payments or qualifying bonuses.
Who Qualifies for the $780 Centrelink Support?
To be eligible for the updated Age Pension support in April 2025, you must meet the following conditions:
- Be 67 years or older.
- Be an Australian resident, having lived in Australia for at least 10 years.
- Pass the income test: Your income must fall below the allowable limits (e.g., less than $204 per fortnight for singles).
- Pass the assets test: Your assets must not exceed the threshold (e.g., less than $301,750 for single homeowners).
- Be registered and verified through Centrelink and linked with myGov.
Important: If you already receive the Age Pension, this increase is automatic. There is no separate application required.
When Will the Payments Be Made?
The payment increases began on March 20, 2025, and are now being fully reflected in April 2025 disbursements. Pensioners can expect to see the updated amount in their regular fortnightly payments, depending on their payment cycle.
If you haven’t noticed a change, check the latest payment summary in your myGov account.
Read More: Approved! $890 Centrelink Payments Start Rolling Out This April – Are You Getting One?
How to Ensure You’re Receiving the Full Amount
Even though this increase is automatic, it’s important to take the following steps:
- Update your personal details in myGov, especially your bank account info.
- Review your income and asset declarations to ensure you’re still within the thresholds.
- Check for any messages or alerts in your Centrelink inbox via myGov.
The $780 Centrelink pension support in 2025 is part of Australia’s commitment to ensuring older Australians live with dignity and financial stability. If you’re an eligible pensioner, your payments should already reflect the new rates as of April 2025.
By staying informed and keeping your Centrelink profile up to date, you’ll ensure you continue to receive the correct support you’re entitled to.
FAQs
Do I need to apply separately for the $780 Centrelink increase in April 2025?
No. If you’re already receiving the Age Pension, the increase is automatically added to your regular payments.
What if I haven’t seen any increase yet in April 2025?
Log into myGov, check your Centrelink messages, and confirm your banking and income information is current. If still unresolved, contact Centrelink.
Can new pensioners apply and still receive the updated rate?
Yes. Anyone approved for the Age Pension in 2025 will receive payments at the new indexed rate.