Youth Allowance
For Young Job Seekers
Youth Allowance helps young people 16-21 who are looking for work, studying, or training.
Eligibility
Age Requirements
- Job seekers: 16-21 years
- Students: 16-24 years
- Apprentices: 16-24 years
Independence Test
Considered independent if you:
- Are 22 or older
- Are married or in registered relationship
- Have a dependent child
- Have worked full-time for 18 months
- Can’t live at home
Payment Rates (2025)
Living at Home
- Single, 16-17: $383.50/fortnight
- Single, 18+: $445.20/fortnight
Away from Home
- Single, under 18: $602.00/fortnight
- Single, 18+: $602.00/fortnight
Parental Income Test
Cut-off Points
- Family with 1 child: $58,108
- Each additional child: Add $10,000
- Payment reduces with higher income
Assets Test
- Family assets limit: $1,025,000
- Doesn’t include family home
Work and Study
Working While on Payment
- First $150/fortnight free
- 50 cents reduction per dollar $150-$256
- 60 cents reduction over $256
Approved Activities
- Full-time job search
- Part-time study + job search
- Vocational training
- Work for the Dole
Common Issues
Payment Delays
- Missing documents
- Verification needed
- System processing
- Public holidays
Solutions
- Submit everything early
- Use Express Plus app
- Keep copies
- Follow up weekly
Moving Out of Home
Unreasonable to Live at Home
Approved if:
- Serious family conflict
- No parental support
- Parents can’t provide home
- Distance to work/study
Evidence Needed
- Third party statement
- Social worker report
- School counselor letter
- Police report if applicable
Transitioning to JobSeeker
At 22, you’ll move to JobSeeker Payment:
- Higher base rate
- No parental income test
- Same obligations
- Automatic transfer
Resources
- Youth Allowance Hotline: 132 490
- Online account: myGov
- Express Plus app: Real-time updates
- Youth support: Headspace, Youth services