The Australian government offers financial help to people who are out of work, working less than usual, or unable to work due to short-term health issues. This help comes in the form of the JobSeeker Payment, which aims to support individuals while they search for work or recover from an illness or injury. It’s one of the country’s key support programs for adults under retirement age.
As of September 2024, eligible people can get up to $1007 every two weeks. The amount depends on each person’s situation. For example, single people with children or those over 55 can get more money than those without dependents. It’s important to know that this payment is taxable, so recipients should be ready to pay tax on what they receive.
To get this support, applicants must meet certain rules. These include being the right age, living in Australia, and showing they have limited income or assets. Applicants also need to prove they’re actively looking for work or recovering from a temporary condition. This article explains everything in simple terms—from who can apply to how much money they might receive.
Who Can Apply for This Support?
The JobSeeker Payment is open to Australian residents who:
- Are between 22 years old and the age required for the Age Pension.
- Are physically present in Australia when applying.
- Pass income and asset tests to show financial need.
- Are either actively looking for a job or unable to work because of a short-term illness or injury.
People already receiving some payments from the Department of Veterans’ Affairs might not be eligible. To be sure, it’s a good idea to use the Payment Finder Tool on the government’s website.
Extra Rules for People Who Are Unemployed
You may be eligible for JobSeeker if you:
- Are completely out of work and signed up with a job agency.
- Work part-time or casually but earn less than the income limit.
- Have been temporarily laid off.
- Have reduced working hours and now earn too little to support yourself.
It’s important to report any income you do earn. If you earn above a certain amount, your payment may be reduced.
Help for People Who Are Sick or Injured
If you’re temporarily unable to work due to health reasons, you may still get JobSeeker Payment. Here’s what you need:
- A medical certificate from a doctor saying you can’t work or study.
- A health issue that should get better in a short time.
- Proof that your condition stops you from doing your usual job or schooling.
You’ll need to provide medical evidence from a licensed healthcare professional. If your condition lasts longer than expected, Centrelink may ask for a new review.
Residency and Waiting Time Rules
To qualify, you must be a permanent resident of Australia and physically in the country when you apply. Some people, especially new migrants, might have to wait up to four years before they can get this payment. However, certain visa holders and people under humanitarian programs might not have to wait as long.
How Much Money Can You Get?
The amount you receive depends on your age, relationship status, number of kids, and ability to work. Payments are updated every March and September to match economic conditions.
Steps to Apply for the JobSeeker Payment
To apply, follow these easy steps:
- Open a myGov account and connect it with Centrelink.
- Confirm your identity using documents like your Medicare card, passport, or driver’s license.
- Fill out your claim form online through the Centrelink portal.
- Upload your required documents (job history, medical certificate, etc.).
- Start your employment and income reporting.
When Will You Get Paid?
Once approved, your first payment usually arrives in about two weeks. However, some situations may delay this, including:
- If you have too much money in savings or other assets.
- If you received a payout from your last job.
- If you’ve done short-term or seasonal work recently.
- If you’re a recent permanent resident.
You can check your payment status any time by logging in to your myGov account.
What You Need to Do After Getting Approved
To keep getting payments:
- Report your income every two weeks.
- Tell Centrelink about changes in your job or family situation.
- Report any new financial support or money you get.
Not following these rules may cause your payment to stop or be delayed.