Youth Allowance for students and apprentices

Q: Where can I find the official rules for youth allowance for students and apprentices?

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 it?

You may qualify if you are:

Aged 16–24 (or up to 24 for a full-time apprentice)
Studying full time at a secondary or tertiary institution
An Australian resident
Under the income and assets test limits

Source: Services Australia.

Dependent vs independent

Most students under 22 are assessed as dependent, which means your parents' income is taken into account. If you meet certain independence criteria (e.g. worked full time for 18 months, have a dependent child, or are an orphan), you are assessed as independent and only your own income counts.

How much does it pay?

From 20 September 2026 (maximum rates, including supplements):

Single, 18+, away from home: $793.70/fn
Single, 18+, at home: $448.00/fn

Your actual rate depends on your income and whether you are dependent or independent.

Claiming

Claim through myGov. You will need your student ID, enrolment details, and evidence of your independence if you are claiming independence.

Questions about this guide

Where can I find the official rules for youth allowance for students and apprentices?

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.