Disability Support Pension for Bipolar Disorder

Bipolar disorder (types I and II) can qualify for the Disability Support Pension, particularly when mood episodes are frequent, severe, and difficult to stabilise with medication. The episodic nature of bipolar can make DSP claims challenging — you need to demonstrate that even between episodes, your functional capacity remains significantly impaired.

Last verified: 20 March 2026

DSP Payment Rates (2025-26)

Status	Rate per fortnight
Single (21+)	$1,116.30
Couple (each, 21+)	$841.40

Rates include base pension and Pension Supplement. Under-21 rates are lower. Energy Supplement is additional. Current from 20 March 2026.

Impairment Tables Assessment

Bipolar disorder is assessed under Impairment Table 5 — Mental Health Function. The key is demonstrating that your overall functioning is impaired, not just during acute episodes. If episodes are frequent and recovery between them is incomplete, scores of 10-20 points are achievable. Medication side effects (e.g., cognitive dulling from lithium or weight gain from antipsychotics) can also contribute to impairment.

Evidence Needed

*Psychiatrist reports documenting diagnosis, episode frequency, severity, and inter-episode functioning
*Medication history including mood stabilisers, antipsychotics, and any adverse effects
*Records of hospitalisations during manic or depressive episodes
*Evidence of functional impairment between episodes (not just during acute episodes)
*Work history showing inability to sustain employment due to the condition
*Reports from treating psychologist or mental health team

Application Tips

*Focus on inter-episode impairment — Centrelink may argue you can work between episodes if you present as well during assessments
*Document episode frequency: monthly, quarterly, or seasonal patterns
*Include evidence of medication side effects that affect functioning (cognitive impairment, sedation, weight gain)
*A letter from your psychiatrist stating the condition is chronic and not expected to significantly improve is essential
*If manic episodes have led to financial, legal, or relationship consequences, document these as evidence of severity
*Consider requesting your DMA during a period of relative stability but with clear documentation of recent episodes

Disability Medical Assessment (DMA)

The DMA for bipolar disorder involves a clinical interview assessing current mental state, episode history, treatment adherence, and functional capacity. You may present as well on the day — bring written documentation of recent episodes and their impact. The assessor should consider your functioning over the previous 12 months, not just the day of assessment.

Partial Capacity to Work

The unpredictable nature of bipolar episodes may support a finding of limited work capacity even if you appear functional between episodes. If you cannot reliably attend work due to episode frequency, this supports a capacity of less than 15 hours per week.

Appeal Rights

If your DSP claim is rejected, you have the right to appeal. First, request an internal review by an Authorised Review Officer (ARO) within 13 weeks of the decision. If the ARO upholds the rejection, you can appeal to the Administrative Review Tribunal (ART, formerly AAT) within 13 weeks. New medical evidence can be submitted at each stage. Around 40% of DSP appeals at the ART are successful. Free legal help is available from Legal Aid and disability advocacy organisations.

Income & Assets Tests

DSP is subject to both an income test and an assets test. Singles can earn up to $204 per fortnight before their payment is reduced (50c per dollar above). Single homeowners can have up to $314,000 in assets for the full payment. Couples have a combined income free area of $360/fn and assets limit of $470,000 (homeowner).

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get DSP for bipolar disorder?

Yes, particularly if your episodes are frequent, severe, and your functioning remains impaired between episodes. You need 20+ impairment points with at least 8 from Mental Health Function (Table 5). Bipolar I with frequent hospitalisations has a stronger case than well-controlled bipolar II.

What if I seem well at my DMA assessment?

Bring written documentation of recent episodes and their impact. The assessor should consider your functioning over the past 12 months, not just the day of assessment. A letter from your psychiatrist describing your typical functioning is very helpful.

Does medication compliance affect my DSP claim?

Yes. If you are not taking prescribed medication, Centrelink may argue your condition is not fully treated. However, if medication side effects are intolerable, document this with your psychiatrist — treatment refusal due to side effects can still meet the 'fully treated' requirement.

Can bipolar disorder be considered 'manifest' for DSP?

Rarely. Manifest eligibility is reserved for the most severe conditions (e.g., permanent blindness, terminal illness). Most bipolar claims require the standard assessment process including a Program of Support.

What happens to DSP if my bipolar stabilises?

DSP is subject to medical reviews. If your condition improves significantly and you can work 15+ hours per week, your DSP may be cancelled. However, reviews are infrequent and you can retain your Pensioner Concession Card for up to 12 months after cancellation.

Related tools & calculators

Benefits Check DSP Calculator Income & Asset Test Assets Test Thresholds Payment Rates 2025-26 Deeming Rates Rent Assistance Carer Payment

This tool provides general information and estimates only based on publicly available data from Services Australia and the Department of Social Services. It does not constitute financial, tax, or legal advice and should not be relied upon as such. Results may not reflect your specific circumstances. Always verify with Services Australia before making decisions about your entitlements.

Sources: Services Australia, Department of Social Services. Rates and thresholds current from 20 March 2026.

Disclaimer: This page provides general information about DSP eligibility for bipolar disorder. Individual circumstances vary. Always consult Services Australia and seek medical advice specific to your situation.