Young Aussies to Get $153.50/Fortnight in 2025 – Are You Eligible for This Payment?

As 2025 draws near, the Australian government is making various schemes available to its youth financially. One of the significant schemes is the $153.50 fortnightly payment, which gives students, apprentices and young people with disabilities up to the age of 21 financial assistance.

This payment assists them in fulfilling their day-to-day needs, and they can concentrate on their career and studies. In this article, we will learn about the significant features of this financial scheme in detail, i.e., – its eligibility, application procedure, and advantages of this scheme.

What is the $153.50/fortnightly payment?

This economic aid is provided by the government of Australia for youths who are economically struggling. It is supposed to assist them in covering their essential needs, thereby enabling them to concentrate on studies and training without worrying about money.

This payment is made by a government agency named Centrelink. But this benefit is not for all, but some special eligibility conditions have been set for this, like – age, residence status, income level and participation in full-time study or training.

Eligibility criteria

1. Age and residence

• This payment is for Australian citizens and permanent residents who are below the age of 21.
• Only individuals who are young but meet the Australian citizenship or permanent residency requirements will qualify for this payment.

2. Income and assets test

• The government examines the overall income and possessions of applicants. When the income of an individual is high or they have large possessions, they will not be found eligible for this payment.
• But low-income young people can gain a lot from this aid.

3. Full-time education or training

• Applicants must be full-time students at a recognized institution or in a professional training (apprenticeship).
• The objective is to make sure that this assistance reaches young people who are dedicated to constructing their future.

4. Additional support for young people with disabilities

Young individuals who are financially struggling because of a disability can also be given extra assistance of $159.30 fortnightly under the “Youth Disability Supplement” alongside this payment.

How ​​to apply for the $153.50/fortnightly payment?

There is a straightforward but step-by-step application process to be given this payment:

Step 1: Check eligibility

• Make sure you fulfill all the eligibility criteria before you apply.
• You can verify your eligibility using the “Payment Finder” tool on the Services Australia website.

Step 2: Gather the necessary documents

The following documents will be needed for the application:

✅ Identification proof – Passport or birth certificate

✅ Residence proof – Citizenship or permanent residence proof

✅ Income and assets proof – Pay slip, bank statement, or tax statement

✅ Proof of education or training – Certificate from school or instructor

Step 3: Submit the application

• With the required documents, you can apply online on the Services Australia website.
• Alternatively, you can apply by visiting the nearest Centrelink office or complete the application process via phone.
• The application process can take a few weeks, so it’s best to apply as early as possible.

Step 4: Ongoing eligibility checks

If your application is successful, Centrelink will review your circumstances from time to time. This will involve reassessing your income, assets and study or training status. You will be required to inform us if there is a change in your circumstances.

Financial management tips for young people

The $153.50 fortnightly payment is a handy money injection, but you should spend it sensibly. Some tips:

Create a budget – limit unnecessary spending and prioritize the essentials (rent, food, transport).

Save – save some money for emergencies.

Monitor your spending – utilize a budgeting app or spreadsheet.
Benefit from discounts and supports – benefit from government discounts available to students and apprentices.

Other young people’s financial support schemes

Aside from the $153.50/fortnightly payment, there are other schemes of financial assistance for young Australian citizens:

• JobSeeker Payment – for youths looking for work.
• Rent Assistance – for youths who are entitled to rent assistance.
• HECS-HELP – Education loan program for university students.

More information about these programs is available on the official webpage of Services Australia.

Changes to financial support in 2025

Some of the significant alterations introduced by the government in 2025 are:

✅ Youth Allowance Hike – Keeping in mind the increase in the cost of living, this allowance has been raised by $17.30 fortnightly

✅ Enhancement to Disability Support – Disability pension benefits will be enhanced by $17.30 fortnightly

Effect of this payment on young people’s lives

Numerous young persons are being helped under this program. For example:

Sarah, 19-year-old apprentice (from Melbourne)

“The $153.50 payment has been very useful to me. As an apprentice, my income is low, and this additional assistance enables me to pay for my transport, equipment and other things.”

Alex, University of Sydney student

“Youth Allowance has provided me with stability, enabling me to concentrate on school. If it were not for this support, I would be concerned about paying rent and other things.

Conclusion

The $153.50 fortnightly payment is a significant financial assistance for Australian youth. It provides them with the chance to pursue their education and career without any fiscal limitations. With the right facts and proper financial planning, youth can get maximum benefits from this scheme and secure their futures.

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