Pensioners to pocket small increase

Millions of pensioners will pocket a few more dollars a week when payments rise by 1.3 per cent later this month.

The aged and disabled pensions will rise by $11.20 a fortnight for singles and $16.80 for couples on March 20 - a boost in line with wage growth and inflation over the six months to December 2016.

Newstart and parental payments will also increase, reflecting the consumer price index, along with rent assistance.