Finding yourself without work can be stressful. The Australian government understands this and offers the JobSeeker Payment to help people during difficult times. This financial support is for those who are unemployed, working fewer hours, or unable to work for a short time due to illness or injury.
In 2025, the payment amount can go up to $1007 every two weeks depending on your personal situation. Whether you’re single, caring for children, or recovering from an illness, the JobSeeker Payment can ease the pressure while you search for a new job or recover your health.
To get this benefit, you must meet certain conditions. These include your age, where you live, how much money or assets you have, and whether you’re actively looking for work. You also need to apply correctly and follow Centrelink’s rules once approved. Let’s take a closer look at all the details.
Who Can Get the JobSeeker Payment?
To receive the JobSeeker Payment, you must meet these conditions:
- Be between 22 years and pension age.
- Be an Australian resident and currently living in Australia.
- Pass the income and asset tests.
- Be actively job hunting or temporarily unable to work due to illness or injury.
People who receive certain payments from the Department of Veterans’ Affairs (DVA) may not be able to get this payment. The government’s Payment Finder Tool is the easiest way to check if you qualify.
If You’re Unemployed or Underemployed
This payment supports people who are:
- Fully unemployed and registered with a job agency.
- Working casual or part-time and earning less than the limit.
- Recently stood down due to job loss or company issues.
- Facing reduced work hours that lower their total income.
You must report any income you earn while receiving this support. If you earn too much, your payment may be reduced.
Can You Get It If You’re Sick or Injured?
Yes, you can. If you can’t work for a short time due to illness or injury, you may still get the JobSeeker Payment. You must:
- Have a medical certificate from a healthcare professional.
- Have a temporary condition, meaning you’ll likely recover soon.
- Be unable to work or study because of the condition.
You may need to give new medical documents if your condition lasts longer than expected.
Residency and Waiting Time Rules
You need to:
- Be a permanent resident of Australia.
- Be physically present in the country when you apply.
Some new residents may have to wait up to four years before they can receive this payment. There are exceptions for some visa holders and humanitarian entrants.
Step-by-Step: How to Apply
To apply, follow these steps:
- Create a myGov account: myGov website
- Link it to Centrelink.
- Provide proof of identity (e.g., Medicare card, driver’s license).
- Submit your claim on the Centrelink portal.
- Upload supporting documents, like job history or medical reports.
- Complete income and work details as part of your application.
How Long Before You Get Paid?
Once approved, payments usually start within two weeks. But extra waiting time may apply if:
- You have high savings (liquid assets).
- You received redundancy pay from a previous job.
- You recently finished contract or seasonal work.
- You’re a new permanent resident.
You can track your claim’s progress on myGov.
Keep Your Payments: Follow the Rules
To keep getting payments, you must:
- Report your income every two weeks.
- Tell Centrelink about any changes in your work or family.
- Report any extra money you receive.
If you don’t follow these rules, your payments could be stopped or delayed.