Single pensioners will receive $1400, and couples $2100, in a one-off payment courtesy of the Commonwealth government, to help stimulate the nation's flagging economy.

The payments involve all aged pensioners, a spokesman for the office of Rob Oakeshott, Federal member for Lyne said this week. The Times understands that self-funded retirees who also hold the Commonwealth Seniors Health Card, carers and disability support pensioners will also be eligible for cash payments.

The payments are scheduled to be made in the fortnight after December 8, Mr Oakeshott's spokesperson said.

According to Greater Taree City Council's latest population profile, there would be around 10,000 people over the age of 65 living in the local area.

Not all, of course, would be age pensioners, however a large percentage could be expected to receive the windfall.

2006 statistics show over 5500 people aged 60 to 69 in the area, along with over 5000 aged from 70 to 84, and a further 945 aged 85 or over.

They make up the 26 per cent of Greater Taree people aged 60 and over, of the total population of 44,545 (2006 figures).