From 2025, Australians coping with permanent disability can access the Disability Support Pension (DSP), which is over $1,685.50 every two weeks. This article outlines who is eligible for the DSP, the application process, required documentation, and the claims process. From 2025, Australians coping with permanent disability can access the Disability Support Pension (DSP), which is over $1,685.50 every two weeks. This article outlines who is eligible for the DSP, the application process, required documentation, and the claims process.
Who is eligible for the DSP?
As of 2025, the $1,685.50 DSP is available to individuals who meet a combination of medical and non-medical criteria. These include being 16 years of age and under the Age Pension (currently 67), being a permanent Australian resident for the last 10 years, and meeting the stringent income and asset tests. Each applicant must also have a diagnosed, treated, and stabilized permanent medical condition which precludes them from working for 15 hours a week for at least the next two years. Automatic qualification applies to the permanently blind, those with specific intellectual disabilities, and individuals with terminal illness.
Steps to Make a DSP Claim
To claim a DSP, customers must go to the Services Australia Centrelink portal on myGov. They must create a Centrelink account, and their identity must be verified prior to making a claim. Correspondence nominees and advocates can provide support, and those aged 16 can soon claim DSP up to 13 weeks prior to their birthday.
What Documents are Needed?
For any claim, the most important document to provide is the claim is medical evidence. This is made up of report and letter of and from the doctors, hospital record, specialist assessment, and document proving the condition is permanent and stable. Other than these, document proving identity, history of residency, and current assets and income must be provided. Claims can be rejected in case record are incomplete, and additional request for document may be made in special circumstance.
How to Lodge and Keep Track of Your Claim
After gathering all necessary documents, claimants begin by logging into myGov, linking it to Centrelink, and filling out a digital claim form, which includes questions related to disability, income, and residency status. For those who cannot complete the process online, Centrelink provides a paper claim form or the option to apply in person at a Centrelink service center. Once your claim is submitted, you will get a receipt containing a claim confirmation, ID number, and a claim processing time estimate. You can track your claim progress online or using the Express Plus Centrelink mobile app. Just remember that Centrelink will reach out to you if they need more information or to complete other claim assessments.
The Disability Support Pension Amount and Frequency
In 2025, qualifying individuals will receive a maximum payment of $1,685.50 per fortnight. These rates are reviewed in March and September for possible increases. Payments are automatically deposited into the nominated account and are scheduled for delivery on Tuesday and Thursday. The Disability Support Pension also provides other concessions and benefits, such as a Pensioner Concession Card, which allows holders access to subsidized services.
Table: Key Eligibility & Claim Steps
| Step | Requirement/Action |
|---|---|
| Age | 16-67 years |
| Residency | Australian, 10+ years |
| Condition | Permanent & stabilized |
| Work Capacity | <15 hrs/week for 2+ years |
| Documents | Medical, ID, income/assets |
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: How do I claim DSP in 2025?
Claim online through Centrelink using myGov after preparing all your documents.
Q2: How much is the DSP payment per fortnight?
As a single person, you receive $1,685.50, which is subject to bi-annual adjustments.
Q3. What if I submit incomplete documents?
In these cases, Centrelink could either ask for more documents before a decision is made, or, if there is no response after a reasonable amount of time, there is a chance your claim could be closed.
