As of April 2025, Centrelink has updated the Austudy payment, offering up to $663.30 per fortnight for eligible students and apprentices aged 25 or older. This targeted financial support is designed to help mature-age learners manage living costs while they pursue full-time education or apprenticeships.
Whether you’re resuming studies after a break or continuing your academic journey, understanding how the Austudy benefit works can bring much-needed financial stability.
| Feature | Details |
| Payment Name | Austudy |
| Administered By | Services Australia |
| Maximum Fortnightly Payment | $663.30 for singles without children |
| Eligibility Age | 25 years or older |
| Study Requirement | Full-time study in an approved course or full-time Australian Apprenticeship |
| Residency Requirement | Must meet Australian residency rules |
| Income & Assets Tests | Must pass income and assets tests |
| Application Method | Online via myGov |
| First Payment Timeline | Within 2 weeks after approval, subject to waiting periods |
| Additional Support | May include Rent Assistance, Student Start-up Loan, etc. |
What is the Austudy Payment?
Austudy is a government payment provided through Centrelink, aimed specifically at Australians aged 25 and over who are enrolled in full-time study or a registered apprenticeship program. The payment can be as much as $663.30 per fortnight, depending on your personal and financial circumstances.
Why the $663 Austudy Payment Matters
For many adult learners, balancing education and living expenses can be a challenge. The $663 fortnightly Austudy payment helps reduce financial pressure, allowing recipients to focus on their education, training, and career advancement.
What This Guide Covers
This complete breakdown will help you understand:
- Who is eligible for the Austudy payment
- How to apply through Centrelink
- Payment rates and frequency
- Study load requirements
- Reporting obligations
- Additional financial support options
Who Is Eligible for Centrelink’s Austudy in 2025?
To qualify for the Austudy payment in 2025, applicants must meet several important criteria. This support is specifically designed for mature students and apprentices who are committed to full-time education or training.
Eligibility Criteria for Austudy:
- Age Requirement: You must be 25 years or older.
- Study or Training: Must be enrolled in full-time study in an approved course or be undertaking a full-time Australian Apprenticeship.
- Residency: You must be an Australian resident and meet specific Centrelink residency rules.
- Income & Assets: You must satisfy Centrelink’s income and assets tests to be eligible.
- Payment Exclusivity: You cannot receive Austudy if you’re already receiving Youth Allowance or certain DVA (Department of Veterans’ Affairs) payments.
Note: If you were already on Youth Allowance when you turned 25, you may continue receiving it until you finish your course, instead of switching to Austudy.
How Much Can You Receive on Austudy in 2025?
As of April 2025, the maximum basic fortnightly Austudy rates are:
| Category | Maximum Fortnightly Payment |
| Single, no children | $663.30 |
| Single, with children | $816.90 |
| Each member of a couple | $608.70 |
These base rates may be increased with additional supplements, including:
- Rent Assistance
- Student Start-up Loan
- Remote Area Allowance
How to Apply for Centrelink’s $663 Austudy Payment in 2025
Applying for the Austudy payment is a straightforward process through your myGov account. If you meet the eligibility criteria, follow the steps below to claim your fortnightly support of up to $663.30.
Step-by-Step Guide to Apply for Austudy
1. Create or Log In to Your myGov Account
Visit myGov and either log in or create a new account if you don’t already have one.
2. Link Your Centrelink Account
- Use your Customer Reference Number (CRN) to link Centrelink to your myGov account.
- If you don’t have a CRN, you’ll need to visit a Centrelink service centre to get one.
3. Start Your Austudy Claim
- Go to the Centrelink section of your myGov dashboard.
- Click on ‘Make a Claim’, then select Austudy from the available options.
4. Submit Required Documents
You will need to upload or provide:
- Proof of enrollment in a full-time approved course or apprenticeship
- Identity verification documents
- Details of your income and assets
When Will You Get Your First Austudy Payment?
Once your claim is approved, you’ll generally receive your first Austudy payment within 14 days. However, the timeline may be extended due to:
- Liquid Assets Waiting Period (LAWP): Applies if you have substantial savings.
- Income Maintenance Period (IMP): Applies if you’ve received a lump-sum payment from previous employment.
You can track the status of your claim and view estimated processing times directly through your Centrelink online account.
Managing Your Austudy Payment: What to Do After Approval
Once your Austudy claim is approved, it’s important to actively manage your payments to ensure you remain eligible and avoid penalties. Here’s how to stay on track:
Key Responsibilities for Austudy Recipients
- Report Your Income Regularly
You must report your income every fortnight through your Centrelink online account or the mobile app. - Update Personal Information
If there are changes to your living situation, course details, income, or relationship status, make sure to update them immediately. - Use Digital Tools for Easy Access
The myGov portal and Centrelink mobile app are the fastest, most convenient ways to manage your Austudy account.
Important: Failure to report correctly or on time can lead to overpayments, repayment debts, or even penalties. Always stay up to date with your obligations.
Additional Financial Support with Austudy
You may be eligible for extra support in addition to your basic Austudy payment. Here are some helpful options:
Rent Assistance
If you’re paying rent, you may qualify for additional fortnightly payments to help cover housing costs.
Advance Payment
Centrelink may offer a lump-sum advance taken from your future Austudy payments to assist with urgent expenses.
Student Start-up Loan
Eligible students can apply for a voluntary loan of up to $1,153 (value for 2025), available twice per year to help with study-related costs.
Health Care Card
Receive access to cheaper prescription medicines, bulk-billed GP visits, and other health-related concessions.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Austudy
1. Can I work while receiving Austudy?
Yes, you can work while receiving Austudy. However, any income you earn may affect your payment amount according to the income test. We recommend using the income estimator tool available on Services Australia’s website to get a clear picture of how your earnings could impact your benefits.
2. What happens if I switch to part-time study?
If you drop to part-time study, you generally lose your eligibility for Austudy unless you qualify for an exemption—typically granted under special circumstances, such as illness or other significant challenges. It’s important to check with Centrelink for any specific exemptions that may apply to your situation.
3. Do I need to reapply every semester or year?
No, you don’t need to reapply each semester or year. Once your Austudy claim is approved, you will continue to receive payments as long as you remain eligible. Just ensure that you notify Centrelink promptly if there are any changes to your course, study load, or personal circumstances.
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