The Centrelink Age Pension is a crucial financial support system for Australian retirees, helping them cover essential living expenses. With updated eligibility rules for 2025, more Australians may now qualify for this payment.
These updates include increased income and asset limits, allowing pensioners to earn more without affecting their benefits.
Let’s break down the eligibility requirements, recent changes, and the steps to apply for the Centrelink Age Pension in 2025.
What Is the Centrelink Age Pension?
The Centrelink Age Pension is a government-funded financial assistance program for eligible senior Australians. It ensures retirees can maintain a basic standard of living.
Payments are adjusted twice a year (in March and September) to reflect inflation and the cost of living. This ensures pensioners receive a fair and adequate amount.
Who Is Eligible for the Age Pension in 2025?
To qualify for the Centrelink Age Pension in 2025, applicants must meet the following criteria:
1. Age Requirement
- You must be 67 years or older (for those born on or after January 1, 1957).
2. Residency Requirement
- You must be an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or hold an eligible visa.
- You must have lived in Australia for at least 10 years, with at least five continuous years.
- Special exemptions apply for refugees and international social security agreements.
3. Income Test
Your income affects how much pension you receive. The new income limits for 2025 are:
| Category | Income Limit (Per Fortnight) | Impact on Pension |
|---|---|---|
| Single Pensioner | Up to $212 | No reduction |
| Couple (Combined) | Up to $378 | No reduction |
| Above These Limits | 50 cents reduced per $1 earned | Reduced pension |
4. Asset Test
Your assets also affect your pension payments. The updated asset limits for 2025 are:
| Homeowner | Single | Couple (Combined) |
|---|---|---|
| Full Pension | Up to $314,000 | Up to $470,000 |
| Partial Pension | Above these limits | Gradual reduction |
| Non-Homeowner | Single | Couple (Combined) |
|---|---|---|
| Full Pension | Up to $566,000 | Up to $722,000 |
| Partial Pension | Above these limits | Gradual reduction |
💡 For every $1,000 above the threshold, your pension reduces by $3 per fortnight.
How to Apply for the Centrelink Age Pension in 2025
Applying for the Age Pension is simple if you follow these steps:
1️⃣ Create a MyGov Account – Link it to Centrelink if you haven’t already.
2️⃣ Submit Your Application – Log in to MyGov, go to Centrelink, and select “Make a Claim.”
3️⃣ Upload Required Documents – Proof of identity, residency, income, and assets.
4️⃣ Wait for Approval – Centrelink will review your claim and notify you of the outcome.
📌 Tip: Apply up to 13 weeks before turning 67 to avoid delays in receiving payments!
Recent Updates to Centrelink Pension Eligibility (2025)
The Australian Government has made several updates to help more pensioners qualify:
✅ 1. Increased Income Limits
- Single pensioners can now earn more before their payments are reduced (previously $190 per fortnight).
- Couples also benefit from higher earning thresholds.
✅ 2. Higher Asset Limits
- Limits have increased due to inflation and rising property values, allowing more pensioners to keep their full pension.
✅ 3. Deeming Rates Remain Frozen
- Deeming rates (used to calculate income from savings and investments) remain unchanged until June 30, 2025.
| Deeming Rate | Threshold | Rate Applied |
|---|---|---|
| Lower Rate | Up to $62,600 (singles) / $103,800 (couples) | 0.25% |
| Higher Rate | Amounts above these thresholds | 2.25% |
How Much Is the Centrelink Age Pension in 2025?
Your payment depends on income and asset tests, but the maximum fortnightly pension rates (March 2025) are:
| Category | Maximum Payment (Per Fortnight) |
|---|---|
| Single Pensioner | $1,144.40 |
| Couple (Combined) | $1,725.20 |
✔ These amounts include supplements like the Energy Supplement and Pension Supplement.
Additional Benefits for Pensioners
If you qualify for the Age Pension, you may also be eligible for:
- Pensioner Concession Card – Discounts on healthcare, prescriptions, and utilities.
- Commonwealth Seniors Health Card – Helps self-funded retirees with medical expenses.
- Rent Assistance – Extra payments for pensioners who rent.
- State-Based Concessions – Discounts on transport, electricity, and registration fees.
💡 Check with Centrelink for the full list of available benefits!
The 2025 Centrelink Age Pension eligibility updates offer higher income and asset limits, making it easier for more retirees to qualify.
If you’re nearing 67, check your eligibility early and start the application process to ensure you receive financial support without delays.
