DSP Rates (from March 2026)
| Situation | Max Rate (per fortnight, inc. supplements) |
|---|---|
| Single | ~$1,146 |
| Couple (combined) | ~$1,725 |
| Single, under 21 (at home) | ~$627 |
| Single, under 21 (away from home) | ~$826 |
DSP also comes with a Pensioner Concession Card — same benefits as the Age Pension (PBS at $7.70, energy rebates, transport discounts, council rate reductions).
Eligibility (This Is the Hard Part)
Getting approved for DSP requires meeting strict medical criteria:
- You have a permanent physical, intellectual, or psychiatric condition
- Your condition is diagnosed, treated, and stabilised (you've had all reasonable treatment)
- You score at least 20 points under the Impairment Tables, OR you have a manifest condition (terminal illness, permanent blindness, or intellectual disability with IQ below 70)
- You're unable to work 15+ hours per week at or above minimum wage within the next 2 years, even with support
- You're aged 16 or older and under Age Pension age (67)
The Application Process
DSP claims are assessed by the Department of Social Services using the Impairment Tables. Many claims are initially rejected. If rejected, you can:
- Request an internal review (Authorised Review Officer)
- Appeal to the Administrative Appeals Tribunal (AAT)
- Seek help from a welfare rights centre or disability advocate — free services exist in every state
Tip: The most common reason for rejection is insufficient medical evidence. Gather detailed reports from all treating specialists before applying. Each condition needs a clear diagnosis, treatment history, and prognosis statement.
Working on DSP
You can work and receive DSP. You can earn up to $204/fortnight without your payment being reduced. Above that, it reduces by 50c per dollar. Your payment won't be cancelled unless you demonstrate you can work 15+ hours/week consistently.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much is DSP?
About $1,146/fortnight for singles (from March 2026) — the same as the Age Pension. Includes supplements and comes with a Pensioner Concession Card.
Why do so many DSP claims get rejected?
The most common reason is insufficient medical evidence. You need detailed specialist reports that clearly document your diagnosis, all treatments tried, and a prognosis showing the condition is permanent and prevents you from working 15+ hours per week.
Can I get DSP for mental health conditions?
Yes. Psychiatric conditions including depression, anxiety, PTSD, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia can qualify — but you need to score at least 20 points under the Impairment Tables and show the condition is permanent, treated, and stabilised.
What's the difference between DSP and JobSeeker?
DSP is about $350/fortnight more than JobSeeker, has a Pensioner Concession Card, and has no mutual obligations. JobSeeker requires you to look for work and meet activity requirements.