Claiming JobSeeker Payment

Q: Where can I find the official rules for claiming jobseeker payment?

The official source is Services Australia. All information on this page is checked against that source and dated October 2026.

Q: Is this guide up to date?

This guide was last checked in October 2026. Centrelink rates and rules change — always verify against the official source before making decisions.

Who can get JobSeeker?

You may be eligible if you are:

Aged 22 to Age Pension age (67)
An Australian resident
Looking for work or unable to work temporarily due to illness or injury
Under the income and assets test limits

Full eligibility rules: Services Australia — who can get JobSeeker.

How much does it pay?

From 20 September 2026 (maximum rate, including Energy Supplement):

Single, no children: $833.70/fortnight
Single, with dependent child: $892.80/fortnight
Partnered: $763.00/fortnight

These are maximum rates. Your actual amount depends on your income and assets. Use the payment estimator to calculate yours.

How to claim

Set up or sign in to myGov and link Centrelink (see linking guide).
Select Make a claim from your Centrelink online account.
Choose Looking for work as your situation.
Complete the online form — takes 20–30 minutes.
Upload supporting documents (separation certificate, ID, bank details).
Centrelink will contact you to confirm the claim and book a job seeker appointment.

Claim as soon as possible — your start date is the day you submit your claim, not the day it is approved.

Mutual obligation

To keep receiving JobSeeker you will have mutual obligation requirements — such as applying for jobs, attending appointments, or studying. See the mutual obligation guide for details.

Questions about this guide

Where can I find the official rules for claiming jobseeker payment?

The official source for this guide is Services Australia. All information on this page is checked against that source and dated October 2026.

Is this guide up to date?

This guide was last checked in October 2026. Centrelink rates and rules change — always verify against the official source before making decisions.

Can I use this guide to make a claim?

This guide will help you understand your entitlements and prepare your claim, but you must submit the actual claim through myGov or at a Centrelink service centre. We never ask for or store any personal information.