Disability Support Pension for PTSD

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and complex PTSD can qualify for the Disability Support Pension when symptoms are chronic, treatment-resistant, and significantly impair your ability to work. PTSD claims require careful documentation of both the condition and its functional impact.

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

PTSD is assessed under Impairment Table 5 — Mental Health Function. Assessors evaluate hyperarousal, avoidance behaviours, emotional regulation, concentration, and ability to function in social and workplace settings. Severe PTSD with significant functional impairment typically scores 10-20 points. Complex PTSD with dissociation may score additional points.

Evidence Needed

*Psychiatrist or clinical psychologist report with formal PTSD diagnosis (DSM-5 criteria)
*Treatment history including trauma-focused therapy (EMDR, CPT, or prolonged exposure)
*Medication history (SSRIs, SNRIs, prazosin for nightmares)
*Functional impact statements detailing avoidance, hypervigilance, sleep disturbance, and social isolation
*Evidence of triggers that would occur in a workplace setting
*DVA records if PTSD is service-related (can support Centrelink DSP claims)

Application Tips

*A formal PTSD diagnosis from a psychiatrist is much stronger than a GP diagnosis
*Document specific triggers — if workplace environments trigger symptoms, explain why in detail
*Evidence of avoidance behaviours that prevent workplace attendance is critical
*If you have comorbid depression, anxiety, or substance use, document these for additional impairment points
*Keep evidence of sleep disturbance (sleep study if possible) as this affects work capacity
*If your PTSD is service-related, you may also be eligible for DVA Disability Pension alongside DSP

Disability Medical Assessment (DMA)

A DMA for PTSD involves discussion of your trauma history, current symptoms, treatment, and daily functioning. The assessor should be sensitive to the nature of trauma — you do not need to recount traumatic events in detail. Focus on how symptoms affect your daily life and ability to work.

Partial Capacity to Work

Many people with PTSD have partial capacity to work in specific environments (e.g., working from home, low-stimulus settings). If you can only work in very specific conditions that are unlikely to be available in the open labour market, this 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 PTSD?

Yes, if your PTSD is chronic, has been treated, and prevents you from working 15+ hours per week. You need 20+ impairment points with at least 8 from Mental Health Function (Table 5). Specialist evidence from a psychiatrist is essential.

Is complex PTSD treated differently for DSP?

Complex PTSD (from prolonged trauma) may score higher on impairment tables due to more pervasive symptoms including dissociation, emotional dysregulation, and relationship difficulties. The assessment process is the same but the functional impairment may be greater.

Can I get both DVA pension and DSP for PTSD?

You can receive DVA Disability Pension and Centrelink DSP simultaneously, but the DVA pension is counted as income for the DSP income test. Many veterans receive DVA payments instead of or alongside DSP. Seek advice from a DVA advocate.

Do I have to talk about my trauma in the DMA?

You do not need to recount traumatic events in detail. The DMA focuses on how PTSD symptoms affect your daily functioning and work capacity. You can provide a written statement instead of discussing trauma verbally.

What if my PTSD claim is rejected?

Request an ARO review within 13 weeks, then appeal to the Administrative Review Tribunal. New evidence (particularly a detailed psychiatrist report) can be submitted at each stage. Around 40% of DSP appeals at the ART succeed.

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