Government Support while Unemployed

Australia is one of few countries that provide general living and financial assistance to those dealing with unemployment. There are varying degrees on how unemployment can affect a person or family and the government tries to assist in all instances.

Below are some of the commonly used services for those needing help to get back on their feet.
 
 
 
Government Support:
Income assistance – Bill assistance – Housing assistance – Education & training – Unemployment based on a condition – Relocation – Counselling

The above is a small representation of what the government provides and a full list of services can be found on the Department of Human Services website.

 
Income Assistance
One of the largest concerns that those who are unemployed have to deal with is how to take care of living expenses. Many consider unemployment loans, which may not be the right option when they may qualify for income assistance. Australia has two main programs depending on your age.

Newstart Allowance – this allowance is available if you are older than 22 years old, and are participating in approved activities that enhance your ability to find employment. Essentially you need to be looking for work, prepared to meet Mutual Obligation requirements and meet income and asset tests. You also must meet residency requirements Australia. Your maximum benefit rate for a single person is $523.40 fortnightly, $566.30 if you have children and are single or $472.60 for families per partner.

Youth Allowance – is meant for people aged 16 to 24 who are studying full time or looking for full time work, part of a full time Australian Apprenticeship or sick. The eligibility depends on your age but may include that you are looking for full time work, are currently in full time studies, are dependent or independent from your parents and your income and assets. The maximum benefit ranges from $237.10 to $731.20 fortnightly depending on your situation.

These income support options can ensure basic living necessities as you get back to work, train or study for new work.

In addition, if you are collecting Centrelink there are loans and advances you can take advantage of.

Bill Assistance
Depending on what bills you need help with there are a range of government rebates and vouchers that you can apply for. In addition, many utility and phone companies have programs that they provide to help during times of financial difficulties.

Get details on bill assistance here.

Housing Assistance – Help with rent
One of the main expenses for any family is that of a mortgage or rent. During times of financial instability, this can be a great cause of stress. Fortunately, the Department of Housing does provide help for those in need. There is help from both state and Federal governments. Learn more about rent assistance in your state here.

 
Payments to Train or Study
There are a few government initiatives that help you enter into an apprenticeship or provide payments if you are actively studying.

Austudy – is a payment for those in full time studies or an Australian Apprenticeship and are aged 25 or older. You must be enrolled in an approved course and approved educational institute, meet residency requirements and meet income and asset tests to receive these payments. Payments range from $433.20 to $567.60 fortnightly.

ABSTUDY – are payments that help with the costs for Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander Australians who are studying or taking an apprenticeship. You must not be receiving other government assistance and you must be enrolled in an approved program and school. Payment rates depend on your specific situation.

Unemployed for Various Conditions
If you are unemployed due to a disability, physical, intellectual or psychiatric condition that prevents you from being employed or if you are permanently blind you may be eligible for a number of different payments including Disability Support Pension, Pensioner Concession Card, Mobility Allowance, or a Youth Disability Supplement.

Relocation Help
It is a relatively unknown form of assistance for many Aussies, but there are two relocation services for students or job seekers. In certain circumstances where there are limited opportunities in your area, the government will help relocate you to areas for further education or work. Learn more about government loans and grants for relocation.

Counselling Services
One of the most important services the government funds is that of free financial counselling. Through an extensive partnership network, there are hundreds of counselling offices throughout the country. In many cases the different offices provide a range of counselling services including financial, health, relationship, depression and other support needs. These are professional, confidential and unbiased services there to help. Thousands of Australians utilise theses services each year.

If you are going through financial difficulties whilst unemployed, there are numerous services available from the government as well as non-profits. In many cases, reaching out to a free financial counsellor may be beneficial as they have expertise on providing you with specific advice on how to move forward whilst taking advantage of the different government support programs mentioned above.