If you’re aged 65 or older and living in Australia, you may be eligible for a range of government payments and support programs designed to ease financial pressure and support your independence in 2025. From regular income support to cost-of-living top-ups, these payments play a vital role in helping older Australians meet their daily needs.
Here are five key financial benefits available this year that seniors should know about.
1. Age Pension
The Age Pension is the most common form of income support for senior Australians. To qualify, you must meet age, residency, income, and assets requirements.
As of May 2025, the current maximum fortnightly rates are:
Single: $1,149.00
Couple (each): $866.10
These amounts include the base rate, pension supplement, and energy supplement. The rates are reviewed regularly to keep up with inflation.
2. Carer Payment
If you are providing full-time care for someone with a severe disability, illness, or age-related condition, you may be entitled to the Carer Payment. This benefit is provided to those whose caregiving responsibilities prevent them from engaging in significant paid employment.
It supports thousands of Australians who dedicate their time and energy to caring for loved ones at home.
3. Seniors and Pensioners Tax Offset (SAPTO)
The Seniors and Pensioners Tax Offset (SAPTO) helps reduce the amount of tax you pay as a senior. If you receive a qualifying pension or benefit and your income is below a certain threshold, you may not need to pay any income tax at all.
If you’re part of a couple and don’t use all of your offset, the unused portion may be transferred to your partner, further reducing your household tax burden.
4. Support at Home Program
The new Support at Home program, rolling out in July 2025, is set to replace older in-home care packages. This program aims to simplify and tailor support services, so more seniors can remain in their homes while receiving help with everyday tasks such as meal preparation, cleaning, and transportation.
The program provides a single entry point for assessment and funding, ensuring more efficient and personalized care delivery.
5. One-Off Cost-of-Living Payments
To help seniors cope with increased expenses, the government has introduced multiple one-off payments in 2025. Depending on eligibility, you could receive:
$400 cost-of-living bonus
$1,200 targeted relief for low-income seniors
$2,100 extra benefit for those facing significant financial hardship
These payments are generally distributed automatically to those who already receive qualifying government support, although specific eligibility criteria may apply.
FAQs
How do I apply for these payments?
You can apply online through your myGov account, in person at a Centrelink office, or by calling the Services Australia helpline.
Can I receive more than one payment?
Yes, many seniors qualify for multiple forms of assistance. However, some payments may impact others based on income or asset thresholds.
Are these payments taxable?
The Age Pension and Carer Payment are considered taxable income. However, the SAPTO can help reduce or eliminate your tax liability.
Do payment amounts change during the year?
Yes. Most payment rates are reviewed and adjusted in March and September each year to reflect the rising cost of living.
What if I’m unsure about eligibility?
You can use the eligibility tools available through government service channels or speak to a Centrelink representative for a personalized assessment.
Click here to know more.
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