Disability Support Pension for Depression

Major depressive disorder and persistent depressive disorder (dysthymia) can qualify for the Disability Support Pension when they are severe and treatment-resistant. Depression is one of the most common conditions in DSP claims, but also has a high rejection rate due to the requirement to prove the condition is fully treated and stabilised.

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

Depression is assessed under Impairment Table 5 — Mental Health Function. Assessors evaluate your ability to concentrate, maintain motivation, engage in social interactions, manage self-care, and sustain work-like activities. Severe depression with significant functional impairment typically scores 10-20 points on this table. You need 20 points overall with at least 8 from one table.

Evidence Needed

*Psychiatrist reports detailing diagnosis (major depressive disorder, severity level), treatment trials, and prognosis
*Evidence of multiple medication trials and/or ECT, TMS, or other treatments
*Psychological treatment records (CBT, DBT, or other therapy)
*Functional impact assessment from an occupational therapist if possible
*Hospital admission records for any psychiatric admissions
*GP treatment records spanning at least 2 years

Application Tips

*Treatment-resistant depression is stronger for DSP claims — document all treatments tried and why they were insufficient
*A psychiatrist report carries more weight than a GP letter — invest in a thorough psychiatric assessment
*Describe functional limitations in detail: inability to get out of bed, maintain hygiene, leave the house, concentrate, interact with others
*If you have physical conditions alongside depression, claim points from multiple impairment tables to reach 20 points
*Keep evidence of hospitalisation, crisis interventions, or suicide risk assessments if applicable
*Ensure your psychiatrist states the condition is unlikely to significantly improve within 2 years despite optimal treatment

Disability Medical Assessment (DMA)

A Disability Medical Assessment for depression involves a clinical interview with a government-contracted psychiatrist or GP. They will assess your current symptoms, treatment response, daily functioning, and work capacity. The assessment typically takes 30-60 minutes. Be truthful about your limitations — describe a typical bad day, not your best day.

Partial Capacity to Work

If assessed as having partial capacity to work (8-14 hours/week), you will receive JobSeeker with modified obligations rather than DSP. A capacity of 0-7 hours per week strongly supports DSP eligibility.

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 depression?

Yes, if your depression is severe, treatment-resistant, and prevents you from working 15+ hours per week. You need 20+ impairment points with at least 8 from one table. Specialist psychiatric evidence is essential.

How is depression assessed for DSP?

Depression is assessed under Impairment Table 5 (Mental Health Function). Assessors look at concentration, motivation, social functioning, self-care, and work capacity. Severe, treatment-resistant depression typically scores 10-20 points.

What if I have depression and anxiety together?

Both conditions are assessed under Table 5 (Mental Health Function). Having both may increase your score on that table but they are not assessed separately. However, if depression causes physical symptoms (fatigue, pain), you may score additional points from other tables.

Do I need to have tried medication for DSP depression?

Yes. Your condition must be fully treated and stabilised, meaning you have tried appropriate treatments (medication, therapy, or both) and further treatment is unlikely to significantly improve your condition within 2 years.

Can I appeal a rejected DSP depression claim?

Yes. Request an ARO (Authorised Review Officer) review within 13 weeks, then appeal to the Administrative Review Tribunal within 13 weeks of the ARO decision. New medical evidence can be submitted at each stage.

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 depression. Individual circumstances vary. Always consult Services Australia and seek medical advice specific to your situation.