Disability Support Pension Increase: Meaning for NDIS Participants
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The Disability Support Pension Increase: What NDIS Participants Should Know

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The Disability Support Pension Increase: What NDIS Participants Should Know
October 7, 2025
by MNO Admin

The Disability Support Pension Increase: What NDIS Participants Should Know

If you or someone you care about receives the Disability Support Pension (DSP), you might’ve already heard the good news: pension rates have gone up! And while it may not be a huge jump, even a small boost can go a long way, especially if you’re also receiving support through the NDIS.

So, what does this change actually mean? Should you be getting the DSP if you’re on the NDIS? And how does it all work together? We’re answering all your questions.

 

Can I receive NDIS funding and the Disability Support Pension at the same time?

If you’re on the NDIS, it’s completely normal to wonder: “Should I also be receiving the Disability Support Pension?”

The short answer? Maybe. It depends on whether you meet the criteria.

The DSP is a fortnightly income support payment for people who can’t work full-time (or much at all) due to a permanent disability, medical condition, or mental health condition.

It’s not the same as the NDIS.

The NDIS gives you funding for services and supports (like therapy, personal care, support workers).

The DSP gives you income to help with everyday living costs (like rent, groceries, bills).

You can be on:

  • Only the NDIS
  • Only the DSP
  • Or both (if you’re eligible for each).

 

What’s the Difference Between the DSP and the NDIS?

It’s easy to get them mixed up, but the Disability Support Pension (DSP) and the NDIS are two very different types of support. Here’s a simple breakdown:

Disability Support Pension (DSP)

The DSP is a fortnightly income payment from the government. It’s designed to help people with disability who are unable to work full-time due to their condition. Think of it like a basic income to help cover everyday living expenses. Things like rent, food, and bills.

You don’t use DSP to pay for services, it’s a fortnightly payment that goes into your bank account to support your general cost of living.

National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS)

The NDIS is a funding scheme that pays for specific supports and services to help people with disability live more independently, build skills, and take part in everyday life.

It’s not money you receive directly, the NDIS pays providers (like therapists, support workers, or equipment suppliers) for things that are considered “reasonable and necessary” to meet your goals.

 

Am I automatically eligible for the DSP if I have the NDIS?

You may be able to get the DSP if:

  • You’re aged 16 or over and under Age Pension age (which is currently 67)
  • You have a permanent physical, intellectual, or psychiatric condition
  • You’re unlikely to work 15+ hours a week in the next 2 years due to your disability
  • You’re an Australian resident and meet the income and assets tests

Even if you already have an NDIS plan, you’ll still need to apply separately for the DSP through Centrelink. The good news? Many of the assessments you’ve already done for the NDIS may support your DSP application.

 

What’s changed with the DSP?

As of September 2025, the DSP maximum payment rates have gone up to keep pace with the cost of living. Here’s what’s changed:

  • Single adults (21+ years) now receive about $1,149 per fortnight — that’s nearly $30 more than before.
  • Couples now receive a combined total of $1,732 per fortnight, or $866.10 each, which is an increase of $22.40 per person.

This is the maximum increase, but the exact amount you get still depends on your income, savings, and living situation. But overall, most people on the DSP will notice a bit more money coming in.

 

Will The DSP Increase Affect My NDIS Plan?

The DSP increase will only affect NDIS participants who receive this pension. It may help:

More breathing room

With a bit more money each fortnight, you might find it easier to cover those everyday expenses the NDIS doesn’t fund, like groceries, rent, or bills.

More independence

Extra income can give you more flexibility and control over your choices. Whether that’s saving up for something, covering transport to an appointment, or saying yes to a new experience.

Doesn’t affect your NDIS plan

Getting more DSP doesn’t change your NDIS funding. Your NDIS supports are still based on what’s “reasonable and necessary,” the pension increase won’t affect that.

 

What Should I Do Now?

The DSP increase is automatic, you don’t need to apply. But there are a few things you can do to prepare:

  • Log in and check: If you receive DSP, check your MyGov or Centrelink account to see your new payment amount.
  • Update your info: If anything has changed in your income, assets, or living situation, make sure Services Australia knows.
  • Review your budget: Even small increases can shift your weekly budget. It might be a good time to review your spending and see if anything needs adjusting.
  • Talk to your support coordinator: If you’re on the NDIS, you can chat with your coordinator about whether the pension increase affects any of your current arrangements or support decisions.

 

Let’s Navigate The DSP Increase Together.

We know that life on a disability pension isn’t always easy. While this increase won’t fix everything, it’s something. And sometimes, that’s enough to take a breath, make a plan, or say yes to the things that matter.

More support means more choices, more freedom, and more energy to focus on what lights you up. If you’re unsure whether you should be receiving the DSP, or you’d like help making sense of your NDIS plan, our team is always here to support you.