Losing a job or being unable to work can be stressful, especially when it affects your financial stability. That’s why the Australian government offers the JobSeeker Payment—a program that helps people who are unemployed, underemployed, or temporarily sick or injured. It gives financial support while they look for work or recover.
This payment is not just for people who are completely jobless. Even those with part-time jobs or who have had their work hours cut might be able to get it. The payment amount depends on a person’s situation—like their age, if they have children, or how much income they currently earn.
To get the payment, you need to meet specific rules, go through an application process, and keep reporting your situation regularly. This guide breaks down everything you need to know—who can get it, how much you’ll receive, how to apply, and what rules you must follow to keep getting paid.
Who Can Apply for the JobSeeker Payment?
The JobSeeker Payment is for Australian residents who are between 22 years old and the Age Pension age. To qualify:
- You must live in Australia and be there when you apply.
- You must pass income and asset checks.
- You must be looking for work or unable to work temporarily due to illness or injury.
If you get certain payments from the Department of Veterans’ Affairs, you might not be eligible. You can use the government’s Payment Finder Tool to check if you meet the requirements.
Extra Conditions for Job Seekers
This payment also covers people actively searching for a job, such as:
- Those fully unemployed and registered with a job agency.
- People with part-time or casual jobs who earn less than the set income limit.
- Workers who were laid off or had their hours reduced due to economic changes.
You must report any money you earn while receiving this payment. If your income goes above the allowed amount, your payment could be lowered.
Support for People Who Are Temporarily Sick or Injured
You may still qualify for JobSeeker if you’re sick or injured and can’t work temporarily. To get this:
- You need a valid medical certificate.
- Your condition must be short-term.
- You should not be able to do your regular job or attend school.
Medical documents must come from a certified doctor. If your illness lasts longer than expected, you might need to provide updated paperwork.
Who Can Stay and Apply: Residency and Waiting Rules
You must be a permanent resident and be inside Australia when applying. If you are new to the country, you may need to wait up to four years to get the payment.
Some exceptions apply, especially for long-term visa holders or those under special humanitarian programs.
Steps to Apply for JobSeeker
To apply, follow these steps:
- Create a myGov account and link it to Centrelink.
- Verify your identity (use a Medicare card, passport, or license).
- Log in to the Centrelink portal and start your claim.
- Upload any needed documents (like work history or medical proof).
- Complete income and job activity details as requested.
When Will the Payments Start?
You usually get your first payment within two weeks of getting approved. But delays can happen due to:
- Having too many savings (liquid assets).
- Getting redundancy payments from a past employer.
- Finishing a seasonal or contract job recently.
- Being new in Australia as a resident.
To check your application status, log in to myGov and view updates in your Centrelink account.
What You Must Keep Doing to Keep Getting Paid
Once approved, you need to report your situation regularly, like:
- Your income every two weeks.
- Any changes in your job, family status, or extra income.
Not following these rules can lead to a pause or cancellation of your payment. Staying updated and honest ensures your payments continue without issues.