The service pension is a regular income for veterans with qualifying service who are 60 or over, or permanently unable to work. You can get it earlier than the Age Pension. It's income and assets tested; the maximum is $1,237.70 a fortnight for a single person from 20 September to 31 December 2026.
Who can get the service pension
As a veteran, you need to meet residency requirements and have qualifying service, and be either:
- at least 60 (Service Pension Age), or
- permanently incapacitated for work (Service Pension Invalidity)
Qualifying service usually means you were in danger from hostile enemy forces. Australian, Commonwealth and allied veterans and mariners can qualify; Commonwealth and allied veterans have extra residency requirements. Partners, separated partners and widows or widowers of veterans may be eligible for Service Pension Partner.
DVA service pension rates
Maximum fortnightly rates from 20 September to 31 December 2026, including the pension supplement:
- single: $1,237.70
- each member of a couple: $933.00
Your income and assets reduce the amount. If you're permanently blind, you get the maximum regardless. Rates are reviewed every March and September. You may also get rent assistance or remote area allowance.
What else comes with the service pension
You get a Pensioner Concession Card. Service pensioners under 70 may get a Gold Card, for example if their income and assets are below certain limits. Read about Gold Card eligibility.
How to claim the service pension
Claim online in MyService. It's faster, and you don't need to send proof of identity documents.
Read DVA's service pension information
Checked against DVA's website on 25 September 2026.