Centrelink Confirms 2025 Youth Allowance For Job Seekers – Payment Rates, Eligibility & Application Guide
Centrelink’s Youth Allowance for Job Seekers continues in 2025, providing essential financial support for young Australians aged 16 to 21 who are actively looking for work or unable to work due to temporary illness or injury.
This guide outlines all the latest payment amounts, eligibility criteria, income and asset limits, and how to apply.
What Is Youth Allowance for Job Seekers?
Youth Allowance for Job Seekers is a government-funded Centrelink payment designed to support young Australians transitioning into the workforce.
Whether you’re a school leaver, currently unemployed, or participating in training, this payment aims to help cover daily living expenses while encouraging engagement in job-related activities.
Eligibility Criteria for 2025
To be eligible for Youth Allowance in 2025, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Age: 16 to 21 years old
- Residency: Must be an Australian resident living in Australia
- Employment Status: Looking for full-time work, undertaking job training, or temporarily unable to work due to illness/injury
- Income & Assets: Must pass personal, parental (if under 18), and partner income/asset tests
Updated 2025 Youth Allowance Payment Rates
Centrelink adjusts Youth Allowance payments annually based on CPI and inflation. Below is the updated payment table for 2025:
| Situation | Fortnightly Payment |
|---|---|
| Single, under 18, at home | $410.30 |
| Single, under 18, away from home | $663.30 |
| Single, 18 or older, at home | $472.50 |
| Single, 18 or older, away from home | $663.30 |
| Single, with children | $836.60 |
| Couple, no children (each) | $663.30 |
| Couple, with children (each) | $718.10 |
These rates are maximum payments and are reduced if you exceed income or asset limits.
Income and Asset Tests Explained
1. Personal Income Test
- Earn up to $150/fortnight without affecting payment
- 50¢ reduction per $1 earned between $150–$250
- 60¢ reduction per $1 earned beyond $250
2. Asset Test
- Includes bank savings, property, and investments
- If assets exceed a certain threshold, payments are reduced or canceled
3. Parental Income Test
- Applies if you’re under 18 and dependent
- Payments reduce if parental income exceeds $58,108, with a cut-off limit applying beyond this range
How to Apply for Youth Allowance in 2025
Applying is simple through your myGov account linked to Centrelink. Here are the steps:
- Create or log in to your myGov account
- Link your Centrelink profile
- Prepare documents: ID, proof of income, and medical records if needed
- Submit the online claim
- Agree to a Job Plan (if applicable)
- Report income fortnightly to continue receiving payments
Additional Support You May Qualify For
If you’re approved for Youth Allowance, you might also receive:
- Rent Assistance
- Energy Supplement
- Health Care Card
- Education Entry Payment (if starting study or training)
These benefits help reduce housing, healthcare, and utility costs, especially for those living independently.
The 2025 Youth Allowance for Job Seekers is a critical support for young Australians entering the workforce.
By understanding the eligibility rules, payment rates, and mutual obligations, you can take full advantage of Centrelink’s assistance while securing employment or undergoing necessary training.
Stay proactive to maintain your payments.
FAQs
Can I get Youth Allowance if I’m studying part-time?
No. Youth Allowance for students is separate. If studying part-time, you must still meet job-seeking requirements.
Do I need to report every fortnight?
Yes. To avoid delays or overpayments, report your income and activities every 2 weeks via myGov or the Express Plus Centrelink app.
What happens if I move out of home?
Your payment rate increases. If under 22 and approved as independent, you’ll qualify for the away from home rate.