$699.50 Austudy Benefit in 2025: Complete information in easy language
If you are studying or training and you are 25 years of age or older, then the Australian Government’s Austudy scheme can be an important support for you. This scheme is especially for those students and apprentices who are studying full-time and also want to fulfill their daily needs.
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Eligibility | – Aged 25 or older – Enrolled in an approved full-time course or Australian Apprenticeship – Meet income and asset tests |
| Maximum Fortnightly Payment | – Single, no children: $670.30 – Single, with children: $845.80 – Partnered, no children: $670.30 – Partnered, with children: $718.10 |
| Application Process | – Set up a myGov account and link to Centrelink – Prepare necessary documents – Submit claim online – Track claim status via myGov |
| Payment Dates | – Payments made fortnightly – First payment typically within two weeks of claim approval |
| Additional Support | – One-off $1,500 Student Support Payment in April 2025 for eligible students |
What is Austudy?
Austudy is a government scheme that aims to provide financial assistance to students and trainees who are 25 years of age or older and are doing full-time study or apprenticeship. This makes them feel a little less financial burden with their studies.
Austudy benefit of $699.50 in 2025 – Who can avail it?
If you want to take advantage of this scheme, you must meet the following criteria:
- Age: Must be 25 years or older.
- Education or training: Must be in full-time study at a recognised institution or in an Australian apprenticeship program.
- Citizenship: You must be an Australian citizen or permanent resident and must be in Australia at the time of claim.
- Income and assets: Your income and assets must be within the limits set by the government.
Common mistakes:
- Submitting an incomplete application.
- Not reporting changes in your income or education status.
- Assuming you are automatically eligible without checking.
How to apply for Austudy (Step-by-Step guide):
1. Create a myGov account:
- If you don’t have an account, first create an account on myGov.
- Then link it to Centrelink.
2. Gather the required documents:
- Identity proof (such as driving licence, passport).
- Proof of enrollment.
- Income documents (such as a payslip or bank statement).
3. Submit claim:
- Log in to myGov.
- Go to the Centrelink section and select the “Students, Trainees, and Apprentices” option.
- Fill out the form and upload the documents.
4. Track claim status:
You can check your application status from myGov or the Express Plus Centrelink app.
Payment details:
Fortnightly payment rates (every two weeks):
- Single, without children: $670.30
- Single, with children: $845.80
- Couple, without children: $670.30
- Couple, with children: $718.10
First payment: If there are no interruptions to your claim, the first payment could come within 2 weeks.
| Feature | Austudy | Youth Allowance | ABSTUDY |
|---|---|---|---|
| Age Requirement | 25+ | 16-24 | Varies |
| Income & Asset Tests | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Study Load | Full-time | Full-time or part-time | Full-time or part-time |
| Additional Support | Limited | Higher Rent Assistance | Indigenous support available |
Additional support in 2025:
One-off $1,500 support:
In April 2025 the Government is paying a one-off support amount:
- You must be enrolled on an accredited course by March 1, 2025.
- You must have a citizenship or visa eligibility.
- You must have a minimum 50% course load (with some exceptions).
- The income and asset rules are the same as for Youth Allowance or Austudy.
How to increase your support?
- Make a budget: Keep track of your income and expenses.
- Check scholarships: Look for scholarships from the university or other sources.
- Work within your income: If you work part-time, keep your earnings within the limits so your payments don’t get affected.
Frequently asked questions (FAQs):
Can I work while taking Austudy?
Yes, but payments may be reduced if you earn more than the limit.
What if I go to part-time study?
Then you will no longer be eligible for Austudy.
Can I get Rent Assistance?
If you live separately from your parents and pay rent, you may also be eligible for it.
How long does the claim process take?
It usually takes 2 to 4 weeks, if all the documents are in order.
Conclusion:
If you are 25 years or older and are studying or training, Austudy can be a good financial support for you in 2025. With the right information, documents and timely application, you can take full advantage of this scheme. Also, if any additional assistance is given by the government (such as a one-time payment of $1,500), take advantage of it as well.