About the Energy Supplement
The Energy Supplement is paid with income support payments to help with household energy costs. The Department of Social Services lists it at $14.10 a fortnight for a single pensioner and $10.60 each for a partnered pensioner, about $367 and $276 a year.
You do not apply for it. Services Australia checks eligibility when it assesses your payment, and pays it with your regular payment. You can choose to receive it quarterly instead.
It is separate from state electricity concessions, which you claim through your retailer or state government. Most pensioners can get both.
Who can get it
- You receive an eligible Services Australia income support payment, such as the Age Pension, or an eligible DVA payment.
- It is checked automatically when your payment is assessed. You do not apply separately.
How to apply
- Nothing to do in most cases. It is paid with your regular payment.
- You can ask Services Australia to pay it quarterly instead of fortnightly.
How it is paid: Tax-free, with your regular fortnightly payment, or quarterly if you choose.
Contact: Services Australia, Energy Supplement. Official information.
Moving or switching retailer?
Concessions applied by your retailer do not always move with you. When you move house or switch, give your card details to the new retailer and check the next bill. See how to claim a concession.
Other national energy help
- Energy Bill Relief Fund: Ended 31 December 2025.
- Cheaper Home Batteries Program: About 30% off, tiered by battery size from 1 May 2026.
See every program on our federal rebates page.
Common questions
$14.10 a fortnight for a single pensioner and $10.60 each for a couple, according to Department of Social Services rates from 20 March 2026.
No. It is assessed and paid automatically with your eligible payment.
No. It is tax-free and is not counted as income for social security purposes.
Yes. Services Australia says you may be able to choose to receive the Energy Supplement quarterly instead of with each fortnightly payment.
Sources
Every rate on this page comes from the regulator or the regulated retailer. Last checked October 2026. Prices include GST unless we say otherwise.