Looking for work and need financial support? Australia’s Job Seeker Payment can provide crucial assistance while you search for employment. Whether you’re recently unemployed, working limited hours, or temporarily unable to work due to illness, this payment scheme offers $765-$781 per fortnight to help cover your basic living expenses.
This guide walks you through everything you need to know about claiming your Job Seeker Payment in 2025, from eligibility requirements to the step-by-step application process.
What Is Job Seeker Payment?
Job Seeker Payment is financial assistance from the Australian Government for people aged 22 to pension age who are unemployed, underemployed, or temporarily unable to work. The payment helps cover essential costs like rent, groceries, and utilities while you look for work or recover from illness.
The government pays this support every 2 weeks directly into your bank account. You don’t need to pay it back – it’s designed to give you breathing room during challenging times.
How Much Can You Receive in 2025?
Your JobSeeker Payment amount depends on your personal circumstances. Here are the maximum fortnightly rates as of March 2025:
| Situation | Maximum Fortnightly Amount |
|---|---|
| Single, no children | $781.10 |
| Single with dependent children | $836.50 |
| Single, aged 55+ (after 9 months on JobSeeker) | $836.50 |
| Partnered (each) | $526.50 |
These amounts may be reduced if you earn income or have significant assets. The payment is also taxable, so you might want to arrange for tax to be deducted.
Additional Support Available
Beyond the base payment, you might qualify for:
- Rent Assistance (up to $157.20 per fortnight)
- Energy supplements
- Pharmaceutical allowances
- Remote area allowances
Who Can Get JobSeeker Payment?
To qualify for JobSeeker Payment, you must meet several criteria:
Age and Residency Requirements
- Be between 22 years old and pension age (currently 67)
- Be an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or hold a qualifying visa
- Live in Australia when applying
Work and Income Situation
You must be in one of these situations:
- Unemployed and actively looking for work
- Working part-time but want more hours (underemployed)
- Temporarily unable to work due to illness or injury
- Caring for someone with illness or disability
Income and Asset Limits
Your income and assets must fall below certain thresholds. For single people without children, you can typically earn up to $150 per fortnight before your payment reduces. Higher asset limits apply depending on whether you own your home.
Mutual Obligation Requirements
Most recipients must meet job search requirements, which may include:
- Applying for a certain number of jobs each month
- Attending job interviews
- Participating in training programs
- Volunteering or undertaking work experience
Step-by-Step Application Process
Getting your JobSeeker Payment involves several straightforward steps:
Step 1: Check Your Eligibility
Before applying, use the online eligibility checker on the Services Australia website. This saves time and ensures you’re applying for the right payment.
Step 2: Gather Required Documents
Collect these documents before starting your application:
- Photo identification (driver’s license, passport)
- Medicare card
- Bank account details
- Tax File Number
- Income statements from recent employment
- Medical certificates (if applying due to illness)
- Separation certificate (if recently separated)
Step 3: Create a myGov Account
You need a myGov account linked to Centrelink to apply online:
- Visit myGov website and create an account
- Verify your email address
- Link your Centrelink account (you’ll get a Customer Reference Number if you don’t have one)
Step 4: Submit Your Application Online
- Log into myGov and select Centrelink
- Choose “Make a claim” then “JobSeeker Payment“
- Complete the online form thoroughly
- Upload your supporting documents
- Submit your claim
Step 5: Complete Follow-up Tasks
After submitting, you may need to:
- Attend an appointment with Centrelink
- Complete a Job Seeker Snapshot
- Meet with an employment service provider
- Provide additional documentation
When Will Your Payments Start?
Your first payment typically arrives around 2 weeks after approval, but waiting periods may apply:
Common Waiting Periods
- Ordinary Waiting Period: 1 week for most new claimants
- Liquid Assets Waiting Period: 1-13 weeks if you have significant savings
- Income Maintenance Period: Applies if you received redundancy or leave payments
- Seasonal Work Preclusion Period: 6 months if you recently did seasonal work
Emergency assistance may be available if you’re in severe financial hardship.
Ongoing Requirements
Once approved, you must:
Report Income Every 2 Weeks
Report all income, including:
- Wages from employment
- Self-employment income
- Investment returns
- Overseas pensions
Meet Mutual Obligations
Depending on your circumstances, you might need to:
- Search for work actively
- Attend job interviews
- Participate in training
- Volunteer in community programs
Notify Changes Immediately
Tell Centrelink about:
- Changes in income
- Starting or stopping work
- Relationship changes
- Address changes
- Health improvements
Tips for a Successful Application
Be Honest and Accurate: Provide truthful information about your circumstances. Incorrect details can delay processing or result in overpayments you’ll need to repay.
Submit Documents Promptly: Upload clear, readable copies of all required documents. Poor quality scans can cause delays.
Keep Records: Save copies of your application and all correspondence with Centrelink.
Stay Responsive: Answer calls and attend appointments promptly. Missing appointments can affect your payments.
Use Support Services: Contact Centrelink’s multilingual service on 131 202 if English isn’t your first language.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Waiting too long to apply after becoming unemployed
- Forgetting to report small amounts of income
- Missing appointment notifications
- Not updating address or bank details
- Failing to meet job search requirements
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. Can I work while receiving JobSeeker Payment?
A. Yes, you can work part-time and still receive payments. However, your earnings will reduce your payment amount once you earn over $150 per fortnight.
Q. How long can I receive JobSeeker Payment?
A. There’s no set time limit. You can continue receiving payments as long as you meet eligibility criteria and fulfill your mutual obligations.
Q. What happens if I move interstate?
A. You can continue receiving JobSeeker Payment if you move within Australia, but you must notify Centrelink of your address change immediately.
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