Graduating from high school is an exciting milestone, but it also comes with new responsibilities, especially for students planning to study or start an apprenticeship. The Australian government is offering financial support to help young people manage living and study costs through Youth Allowance, ABSTUDY, and the Tertiary Access Payment (TAP). Eligible students can receive up to $5,000, easing the transition into tertiary education or apprenticeships.
Youth Allowance and ABSTUDY: Financial Support for Students
Youth Allowance and ABSTUDY are key programs for students and apprentices aged 16–24:
Youth Allowance
- Supports full-time students and apprentices in Australia.
- Payments depend on living situation:
- Living away from home: $663.30 every two weeks
- Living at home: $472.50 every two weeks
- Income limits apply, including parental income if you are dependent.
ABSTUDY
- Designed for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students.
- Functions like Youth Allowance but includes extra support tailored for Indigenous learners.
These programs help students focus on their studies without financial stress, whether they remain at home or relocate for education.
Tertiary Access Payment (TAP): Extra Support for Relocating Students
The Tertiary Access Payment helps students moving from regional or remote areas to study:
- Outer regional and remote students: Up to $5,000, paid in two instalments.
- Inner regional students: $3,000 as a single payment.
- Applicable for students under 23 starting their first year of tertiary study, even if they take a gap year.
- Check eligibility using your address on the Services Australia website.
This payment covers relocation costs, making it easier for students to focus on learning rather than worrying about expenses.
Student Start-Up Loan: Interest-Free Boost
For university students, the Student Start-Up Loan provides extra financial support:
- Amount: $1,321, paid twice a year.
- Repayment: Similar to HELP or HECS loans, repaid after graduation.
- Covers initial study costs like books, equipment, and living expenses.
Before applying, students should consider other interest-free options and understand repayment obligations.
How to Claim Youth Payments in 2025
Applying for Youth Allowance, ABSTUDY, or TAP is straightforward:
- Create a myGov account and link it to Centrelink.
- Apply up to 13 weeks before starting full-time study or an apprenticeship.
- Submit TAP applications by December 31 of your first study year.
- Provide supporting documents, including:
- Class or course details
- Residential address
- Parental income (if dependent)
Multiple payments may be available depending on your eligibility, and Centrelink will assess which combination is suitable for your situation.
FAQs About the $5,000 Student Package
Q1: Who can get the $5,000 Tertiary Access Payment?
A1: Students under 23 from outer regional or remote areas starting their first year of tertiary study.
Q2: Do I need to apply separately for Youth Allowance and ABSTUDY?
A2: Yes, they are separate programs. Eligibility depends on your background and study type.
Q3: How often are Youth Allowance payments made?
A3: Every two weeks, with amounts depending on whether you live at home or away.
Q4: Is the Student Start-Up Loan taxable?
A4: No, but it must be repaid after graduation like a HELP or HECS loan.
Q5: Can I take a gap year and still get TAP?
A5: Yes, students starting tertiary study later are still eligible if under 23.
Conclusion
The Centrelink $5,000 Student Package 2025 is designed to make the transition from high school to tertiary study or apprenticeships smoother. By understanding Youth Allowance, ABSTUDY, TAP, and Student Start-Up Loans, students can secure financial support, reduce stress, and focus on achieving their educational goals. Check your eligibility today on the Services Australia website and plan ahead for a successful academic journey.