From 1 October 2025, thousands of Indigenous students will see a boost in their Abstudy living allowance, with payments increasing to $793.60 per fortnight. This change is part of the government’s ongoing commitment to helping Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students manage study costs while coping with the rising cost of living.
Why the Increase is Important
The Abstudy scheme provides essential financial support for Indigenous students by covering:
- Living expenses
- Travel costs
- Tuition and study-related fees
With inflation and daily expenses on the rise, the new $793.60 allowance aims to ease pressure on students and their families. This means learners can focus more on their education instead of worrying about meeting basic costs.
New Payment Schedule from October 2025
Starting from 1 October 2025, the updated payments will roll out automatically. Students already receiving Abstudy do not need to apply for the increase.
Key details:
- New rate: $793.60
- Start date: 1 October 2025
- Payment frequency: Fortnightly
- Who gets it: Current and new eligible students
| Payment Type | Amount (from 1 Oct 2025) | Frequency |
|---|---|---|
| Abstudy Living Allowance | $793.60 | Every 2 weeks |
Who is Eligible?
To qualify for the Abstudy living allowance, students must:
- Be of Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander descent
- Be enrolled in an approved course of study or training
- Meet study load and age requirements
- Live in Australia while studying
Services Australia recommends checking your account details online to ensure your eligibility and payment details are correct.
What This Means for Students
The increase provides:
- More stability for Indigenous students facing rising living costs
- Stronger support for education and training opportunities
- Greater focus on study success without financial stress
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1. When will the new Abstudy rate start?
The $793.60 allowance begins from 1 October 2025.
Q2. Do I need to reapply to get the increase?
No. If you are already receiving Abstudy, the increase will be applied automatically.
Q3. How often are payments made?
Payments are made every fortnight.
Q4. Who is eligible for Abstudy?
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students enrolled in approved courses or training are eligible, subject to study load and age rules.
Q5. What if I apply for Abstudy after 1 October 2025?
New applicants approved after 1 October will also receive the increased $793.60 rate.
Final Thoughts
The rise in the Abstudy living allowance to $793.60 is a big step towards reducing financial barriers for Indigenous students. By easing everyday expenses, the government is helping young Australians stay focused on their studies and build brighter futures.
Students should keep an eye on their Services Australia account to confirm payment updates and ensure everything is processed smoothly.