The Disability Support Pension (DSP) remains one of the most important financial supports for Australians with a permanent physical intellectual or psychiatric condition. As of 2025 the rules and eligibility criteria have seen some minor updates. This article gives you a complete overview of the Disability Support Pension in 2025 using simple English and clear explanations.
What Is the Disability Support Pension
The Disability Support Pension is a payment by the Australian Government through Services Australia. It helps people who cannot work due to a long-term disability or illness. The pension is meant to cover daily living expenses medical needs and other essential costs.
Read More: Centrelink Pension Increase 2025 – What You Need to Know
Who Can Get the DSP in 2025
You may get the Disability Support Pension if
- You are aged 16 or older but below Age Pension age
- You have a permanent physical mental or intellectual condition
- Your condition stops you from working 15 hours a week or more
- You meet the residency rules
- You have medical evidence supporting your condition
Not all disabilities qualify. It must be a permanent condition that is unlikely to improve. Temporary injuries or conditions are not accepted
Residency Rules for DSP
To get the DSP you must be
- An Australian citizen permanent resident or protected Special Category visa holder
- Living in Australia
- Have lived in Australia for at least 10 years including at least 5 years in a row
Some exceptions apply if your condition happened while you were serving in the Australian Defence Force or if you are a refugee
Types of Conditions That May Qualify
Below are examples of health conditions that may allow you to get the DSP
- Severe back pain with medical evidence
- Epilepsy not controlled by medication
- Blindness or vision loss
- Intellectual disability
- Mental health conditions like schizophrenia or bipolar disorder
- Multiple sclerosis
- Autism Spectrum Disorder
The condition must be diagnosed treated and stabilised before applying. This means doctors must have tried treatments and believe your condition will not improve enough to work again
How to Apply for DSP in 2025
You can apply online through the myGov portal linked to Centrelink or by visiting a Services Australia service centre
Steps to apply
- Check eligibility using the online tool
- Prepare documents like ID medical records diagnosis reports and treatment history
- Submit your claim through myGov or in person
- Attend a Job Capacity Assessment if needed
- Wait for your claim to be assessed and approved
It may take several weeks for a decision. Keep your records and update Centrelink if anything changes
Medical Evidence You Need
Your application must include strong medical evidence. This should be from your treating doctor and should include
- Diagnosis of your condition
- When it started
- What treatments have been tried
- The impact on your daily life
- Your ability to work
You may also need reports from specialists psychologists or physiotherapists depending on your condition
How Much Do You Get on DSP in 2025
The payment amount depends on your age living arrangements and income and assets
As of July 2025 the base rate is
- Single person Around $1100 per fortnight
- Couple (each) Around $830 per fortnight
You may also get supplements such as
- Rent Assistance
- Pharmaceutical Allowance
- Energy Supplement
Your payment may be reduced if you or your partner has income or assets over the set limits
Income and Assets Test for DSP
To stay eligible you must pass an income and assets test
Income limits (fortnightly)
- Single Up to $204 before your payment reduces
- Couple (combined) Up to $360
Assets limits
- Single homeowner $301750
- Single non-homeowner $543750
- Couple homeowner $451500
- Couple non-homeowner $693500
If your income or assets are above the limit your DSP payment will be reduced or stopped
Job Capacity Assessment Explained
This is a meeting arranged by Centrelink. It checks how your condition affects your ability to work. It is done by a qualified health or employment professional. They will
- Review your medical reports
- Ask about your daily activities
- Check if you can work with support
- See if you qualify for the DSP or need to try Disability Employment Services first
What If You Are Rejected
If your application is not approved you can
- Ask for a review of the decision within 13 weeks
- Provide more medical evidence
- Apply for JobSeeker Payment if you can work part-time
Some people apply again later with updated medical documents or after going through more treatment
Changes in DSP Rules in 2025
There have been some minor updates in 2025 including
- Faster online applications through myGov
- Digital upload of medical evidence
- More support for people with mental health conditions
- Increased awareness of hidden disabilities like chronic fatigue and fibromyalgia
These changes aim to make it easier to apply and more fair for people with less visible conditions
Can You Work While on DSP
Yes you can do some work and still get the DSP. This is called the Work Bonus. You can earn
- Up to $300 per fortnight without affecting your payment
- If you earn more your DSP may be reduced
You can also try supported employment programs if you want to build your skills and confidence
Disability Support for Youth (Under 21)
Young people under 21 years of age can also get the DSP. However their payment may be slightly different. It depends on whether they
- Live with parents
- Are financially dependent
- Are studying or working
Youth DSP also includes Education Supplements to help with school or training
Important Contacts
If you need help
- Visit a Centrelink office
- Call Services Australia on 132 717
- Visit the Services Australia website
- Ask for help from a disability advocate or legal service
You can also get free help to fill out your application and understand your rights