Centrelink disability support payment – Increase, Pension payments 2024

The Centrelink Disability Support Payment is a payment provided to individuals who have a permanent and severe disability that prevents them from working. This payment is designed to help individuals with a disability to cover the costs of everyday expenses and to support them in living a dignified life.

Eligibility Criteria

To be eligible for the Centrelink Disability Support Payment, you must:

• Have a permanent and severe disability that prevents you from working
• Be aged 16 or over
• Be an Australian resident
• Meet certain income and assets tests

How to Apply

If you think you may be eligible for the Centrelink Disability Support Payment, you can contact your local Centrelink office to enquire about the payment. You will need to:

• Complete an application form
• Provide supporting documentation, such as medical evidence of your disability

Centrelink Disability Support Payment Amount

The Centrelink Disability Support Payment amount varies based on age, income, and other factors ¹. Here are the maximum payment rates:

• Single person 21 or older: $1,020.60 per fortnight
• Couple each: $769.30 per fortnight
• Couple combined: $1,538.60 per fortnight
• Couple each (separated due to ill health): $1,020.60 per fortnight

Payment Rates for Those Under 21

• Single, younger than 18, and dependent: $548.80 per fortnight
• Single, younger than 18, and independent: $792.50 per fortnight
• Single, 18 to 20, and dependent: $608.70 per fortnight
• Single, 18 to 20, and independent: $792.50 per fortnight
• Couple, and younger than 21: $792.50 per fortnight

What Can I Use the Payment For?

The Centrelink Disability Support Payment can be used for a range of expenses, including:

1. Everyday living costs such as food, housing, and utilities
2. Medical expenses related to your disability
3. Transportation costs
4. Home modifications to support your disability
5. Other necessary expenses related to your disability

Benefits of the Payment

The Centrelink Disability Support Payment can provide a range of benefits, including:

1. Financial support to help you cover the costs of everyday expenses
2. Assistance with medical expenses related to your disability
3. Support to help you live independently
4. Access to other forms of support, such as budgeting advice and financial counselling

How to Manage Your Payment

To manage your Centrelink Disability Support Payment effectively, you may want to consider:

• Setting up a budget to track your expenses
• Prioritizing your spending to ensure you are covering essential expenses
• Seeking advice from a financial counsellor or planner

Tips for Living on a Disability Support Payment

Here are some tips for living on a Disability Support Payment:

• Be mindful of your expenses and try to reduce them where possible
• Look for ways to increase your income, such as through part-time work or investments
• Seek support from family, friends, or a support group

Where to Get More Information and Support

If you need more information or support, contact Centrelink or a financial counsellor/planner. Disability support organizations, such as the Disability Council or Australian Disability Association, can also provide guidance. These organizations offer advocacy, support groups, and resources to help you navigate the system. Don’t hesitate to reach out for help. They are there to support you.

FAQs

The Centrelink Disability Support Payment is an important payment for individuals with a permanent and severe disability. If you think you may be eligible, don’t hesitate to reach out and apply. Remember to also explore other forms of support that may be available to you.