The Youth Allowance and ABSTUDY payments are set to increase in 2025, offering additional financial relief to job seekers, students, and Indigenous Australians pursuing education and training. These changes reflect the government’s regular indexation of welfare payments to keep up with the cost of living, ensuring that young Australians and Indigenous communities receive adequate support.
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Youth Allowance for Job Seekers: New Rates for 2025
Youth Allowance provides financial assistance to eligible Australians aged 16 to 24 who are studying, training, or actively seeking employment. The upcoming rate adjustments for 2025 aim to better support young people navigating rising living costs.
| Payment Type | Current Rate (per fortnight) | New Rate (from January 2025) |
|---|---|---|
| Single, under 18, living at home | $313.80 | $325.00 |
| Single, 18 or over, living at home | $377.40 | $391.10 |
| Single, away from home | $567.60 | $588.50 |
| Single, with children | $720.50 | $746.20 |
| Couple, no children (each) | $472.60 | $489.10 |
Energy Supplement: An additional payment of up to $14.10 per fortnight continues to be provided to eligible recipients.
ABSTUDY Payment Increase for 2025
ABSTUDY offers tailored financial support to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students and apprentices. The indexed increases for 2025 will provide extra help for recipients pursuing education or vocational training.
| ABSTUDY Payment Type | Current Rate (per fortnight) | New Rate (from January 2025) |
|---|---|---|
| Living Allowance (single, away from home) | $567.60 | $588.50 |
| Living Allowance (single, with children) | $720.50 | $746.20 |
| Master’s/Doctoral Supplement | $1,060.20 | $1,096.40 |
Who Is Eligible?
- Youth Allowance for Job Seekers:
- Aged 16–21 and looking for full-time work or temporarily unable to work.
- Must meet income and asset tests.
- Can combine study and job-seeking activities under approved programs.
- ABSTUDY:
- Available to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students/apprentices.
- Covers secondary and tertiary education, with specific rates for relocation and living expenses.
Key Benefits of the 2025 Increase
- Enhanced Cost-of-Living Support:
With the rising cost of living, the updated payment rates will provide recipients with more funds to cover essential expenses like rent, food, and utilities. - Better Incentives for Education and Job-Seeking:
Both Youth Allowance and ABSTUDY increases ensure that young Australians and Indigenous students have the financial support needed to focus on education or finding employment. - Greater Equity:
The increases align with inflation adjustments, offering more equitable support for disadvantaged groups.
Important Payment Changes and Dates
- New Rates Begin: Payments at the increased rates will commence on January 1, 2025.
- Adjusted Payment Schedule: Recipients are advised to check their myGov accounts for any schedule changes during public holidays.
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How to Apply or Update Your Details
If you’re not already receiving Youth Allowance or ABSTUDY:
- Create or log into your myGov account.
- Link it to Centrelink.
- Complete the relevant application form online.
If you’re an existing recipient:
- Ensure your details, such as income and assets, are up to date in your Centrelink profile.
Additional Resources
For more information on eligibility, rates, or updates, visit:
Both programs aim to empower young Australians with the financial tools to succeed in education, training, and employment.
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