As the year wraps up, Services Australia is encouraging young Australians heading to university or TAFE to claim Youth Allowance and other financial support early. By applying now, school leavers could secure much-needed financial assistance before starting their next chapter in education or apprenticeships.
Here’s everything you need to know about Youth Allowance and other Centrelink benefits available to school leavers.
Youth Allowance
Youth Allowance is designed to provide financial support to students, apprentices, or young jobseekers. For those planning to pursue university, TAFE, or an apprenticeship next year, applying for Youth Allowance early can mean receiving payments over the summer break, even before classes begin.
Key Points
- Eligibility: Youth Allowance is available for students or apprentices under 24, or jobseekers under 21.
- Payment Rate: The maximum fortnightly payment for a single person over 18 living at home is currently $455.20. This will increase to $472.50 from January 1 due to indexation.
- Early Application: It’s a common misconception that you need your ATAR or course offer to apply. Services Australia confirms this isn’t true, so students should submit claims as soon as possible.
Hank Jongen, general manager of Services Australia, highlighted the benefits of early claims, saying:
“Claiming early could mean getting financial support over the summer break, before your course or training begins.”
More than 70,000 students claim Youth Allowance ahead of Semester 1 each year, so the earlier you apply, the sooner you’ll receive payments.
Centrelink Support
Youth Allowance isn’t the only financial help available to school leavers. Here’s a breakdown of additional payments and loans you might qualify for:
ABSTUDY
This payment is specifically for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students or apprentices. It provides financial support to help with study or training costs.
Relocation Scholarship
If you receive Youth Allowance or ABSTUDY and need to move to or from a regional or remote area for study, you may qualify for this annual payment.
Tertiary Access Payment
A one-off payment of up to $5,000 is available for students moving from regional or remote areas after completing Year 12. Unlike the Relocation Scholarship, eligibility for Youth Allowance is not required.
Student Start-up Loan
Higher education students can access a voluntary loan of $1,273 twice a year to help with study costs. However, this is a loan, not a grant, and must be repaid once your income exceeds a certain threshold.
Steps
Here are some practical steps to prepare for claiming payments:
- Create a myGov Account: This account allows you to access Centrelink, lodge tax returns, and manage other government services.
- Apply Early: Submit your claim now to avoid delays, especially if you want support during the summer break.
- Get a Medicare Card: If you’re moving away from home, having your own Medicare card is essential for health-related expenses.
- Update Bank Details: Ensure your bank account details are current to receive payments and rebates.
Centrelink’s Payment Finder is a helpful tool for identifying which payments you may be eligible for and estimating how much you could receive.
Final Thoughts
Taking advantage of Centrelink’s financial support can make a big difference as you transition to university, TAFE, or an apprenticeship. By claiming early, you’ll have one less thing to worry about as you focus on starting your next journey. Don’t wait—check your eligibility today!
SOURCE – LINK
FAQs
What is Youth Allowance?
Financial support for students, apprentices, or jobseekers.
How much is the Youth Allowance payment?
Up to $472.50 per fortnight starting January 1, 2025.
Do I need an ATAR to claim Youth Allowance?
No, you can apply without an ATAR or course offer.
What is the Tertiary Access Payment?
A one-off payment of up to $5,000 for regional students.
How do I check Centrelink eligibility?
Use the Payment Finder on Centrelink’s website.