5.11.4 Administration of Seniors Supplement

Note: Seniors supplement was paid from 20 September 2009 to 20 June 2015.  The following information is provided for historical purposes only.

No need to apply

A person did not need to apply for seniors supplement (SSup). If SSup was payable, the allowance was paid automatically into the nominated bank account of the person.

Indexation of seniors supplement rate   

The annual rate of SSup was indexed twice each year in line with movements of CPI. If the rate was increased the new rate took effect from 20 March and 20 September each year.

Portability Provisions

SSup recipients travelling overseas for more than 6 weeks were required to notify DVA prior to travel. When this occured, SSup payments were stopped, and upon return, reinstated. Instalment amounts for the following quarter were modified according to the number of qualifying days for SSup met in the period.     

Recovery of debts

Outstanding debts owed to DVA due to overpayment or for any other reasons were not recovered by withholding SSup payments. However, overpayments of SSup made to a person are recoverable.