The pension supplement in Australia is paid fortnightly along with the regular pension payment. The exact payment dates may vary depending on individual circumstances and the payment method chosen (e.g., direct deposit or cheque).
Payments every quarter
Since 2010, the Department of Social Security has allowed recipients to request this amount be paid quarterly which makes it easier for many in retirement to manage and use to pay quarterly utility bills. It is also a handy cash top-up just before Christmas. So, Centrelink can pay you your minimum Pension Supplement quarterly. This amount builds up daily during the quarter. You may contact Centrelink if you’d like to get your supplement quarterly. The following are the dates after which you will be paid:
- 20 March
- 20 June
- 20 September
- 20 December.
If your support is canceled before the above-mentioned dates, Centrelink pays you what’s owed straight away. You’re not locked into quarterly payments and can change your mind at any time.
Updating payment rates
In relation to payment rates for the Pension Supplement, they are updated each year on both:
- 20 March
- 20 September.
It is recommended to consult the Department of Human Services or Services Australia, which oversees pension payments in Australia, for the most up-to-date information regarding pension supplement payment dates.