Australians heading to university or TAFE this year are being encouraged to check their eligibility for the Tertiary Access Payment (TAP). This one-off payment, provided by Services Australia, offers up to $5,000 to help regional students cover relocation costs as they pursue higher education.
Tertiary Access Payment
The TAP is aimed at supporting students moving from regional or remote areas to access tertiary education opportunities. It helps ease the financial burden of relocation, ensuring students can focus on their studies.
Payment
- $5,000: Paid in two installments for students from outer regional or remote areas.
- $3,000: Paid as a lump sum for students from inner regional areas.
Matters
Regional and rural students are 20% less likely to seek tertiary education than their metropolitan peers, according to the Country Education Foundation. While 48% of 25-to-34-year-olds in cities hold degrees, this figure falls to just 20% in regional areas. TAP aims to address this disparity by encouraging and supporting regional students in their academic pursuits.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for TAP, you must meet the following requirements:
- Residency: Be an Australian resident.
- Location: Be from an inner regional, outer regional, or remote area.
- Relocation: Move at least 90 minutes away from home by public transport to study.
- Education: Complete Year 12 (or equivalent) and begin a certificate IV or higher course within 12 months.
- Age: Be 22 or younger when starting your tertiary course.
- Parental Income: Parents’ or guardians’ combined income must be below $250,000.
Eligible students can apply for TAP from January 1 to December 31 during their first year of study.
How to Apply
Applications for TAP can be made through the Services Australia website. After confirming your study details, payments will be processed automatically. Importantly, TAP can be claimed alongside other support options, such as Youth Allowance, ABSTUDY, or the Relocation Scholarship.
Other Support
In addition to TAP, there are several financial support programs available for young Aussies pursuing tertiary education:
Youth Allowance
Financial support for students, apprentices aged 24 or younger, or jobseekers aged 21 or younger.
ABSTUDY
Assistance specifically for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students or apprentices.
Relocation Scholarship
Annual financial support for Youth Allowance or ABSTUDY recipients who move for study.
Student Start-Up Loan
A voluntary loan of $1,273 available twice a year for higher education students, to be repaid once a certain income threshold is met.
Payment Rates
From January 1, 2023, Youth Allowance rates increased by $15 to $24.30 due to indexation, bringing the maximum rate to $663.30 per fortnight for single individuals living away from home. Other payments, including Austudy and Carer Allowance, also saw increases.
Significant
The Tertiary Access Payment is a game-changer for regional and rural students facing the challenges of relocating for study. By providing up to $5,000 in financial support, it helps close the education gap between metropolitan and regional areas.
If you’re from a regional area and starting university or TAFE this year, don’t miss out—check your eligibility and apply for TAP today to make your transition smoother and more affordable.
SOURCE – LINK
FAQs
What is the Tertiary Access Payment?
A one-off payment of up to $5,000 for regional students moving for study.
Who is eligible for TAP?
Regional students under 22 moving 90+ minutes away for tertiary education.
Can TAP be combined with other payments?
Yes, it can be combined with Youth Allowance or ABSTUDY.
When can I apply for TAP?
From January 1 to December 31 in your first year of study.
What is the parental income limit for TAP?
Parents’ combined income must be below $250,000.
