JobSeeker Payment
What is JobSeeker Payment?
JobSeeker Payment is financial help while you’re looking for work or earning under the income limit. It replaced Newstart Allowance in March 2020.
Eligibility
Basic Requirements
- Age: 22 to Age Pension age
- Residency: Australian resident or eligible visa
- Work: Looking for work or temporarily unable
- Income/Assets: Under the limits
Who Can Apply
- Unemployed people
- Part-time workers under income limit
- Sole traders with low income
- Students who can’t get Youth Allowance
How Much Can You Get?
Current Rates (2025)
- Single, no children: $781.10/fortnight
- Single with children: $836.50/fortnight
- Couple: $715.10 each/fortnight
Additional Payments
- Rent Assistance
- Energy Supplement
- Pharmaceutical Allowance
- Remote Area Allowance
Your Obligations
Job Plan Requirements
- Apply for suitable jobs
- Accept suitable work offers
- Attend appointments
- Participate in activities
Points Target
- 100 points per month
- Various activities earn points
- Online reporting required
How to Apply
Step 1: Check Eligibility
Use the Payment Finder
Step 2: Get Ready
Documents needed:
- Identity documents
- Bank details
- Tax File Number
- Residency proof
Step 3: Apply Online
Through myGov linked to Centrelink
Step 4: Submit Documents
Upload through myGov or app
Step 5: Phone Interview
Usually within 2 weeks
Payment Suspension
Your payment may stop if you:
- Don’t report on time
- Miss appointments
- Don’t meet obligations
- Earn too much
Restoring Payment
If suspended:
- Complete required activity
- Contact Centrelink
- Update details
- Wait for reactivation
Tips for Success
- Report on time: Set reminders
- Keep records: All job applications
- Update details: Any changes immediately
- Stay engaged: With your provider
- Know your rights: Get advocate help if needed