The increase in the ABSTUDY Living Allowance to $793.60 per fortnight, effective from October 1, 2025, is a compassionate and vital step by the Australian Government to support the academic and personal well-being of Indigenous students and apprentices. This adjustment is far more than a financial figure; it is a recognition of the unique challenges many face and a commitment to ensuring that no one is left behind due to the rising cost of living.

By providing this essential support, the government is not only helping thousands of young people pursue their education and career goals but is also fostering a more equitable society where every individual has the opportunity to thrive and contribute their full potential. This measure is about investing in a stronger, more inclusive future for all.
Abstudy Living Allowance Hike to $793.60
Key Fact | Detail/Statistic |
---|---|
New ABSTUDY Living Allowance Rate | $793.60 per fortnight |
Payment Dates | Payments made fortnightly, starting 1st October 2025 |
Eligibility Criteria | Age 16-24, enrolled in full-time education or apprenticeship |
The increase in the ABSTUDY Living Allowance to $793.60 per fortnight from 1st October 2025 is a positive step in supporting young Australians in their educational pursuits. This financial support aims to ease the pressures of living expenses for students and apprentices, helping them focus on their studies without undue financial strain. Recipients should review the updated eligibility requirements and payment dates to ensure they receive the full benefit of this increase.
ABSTUDY Living Allowance Boost: What’s New from 1st October 2025?
The ABSTUDY Living Allowance, which supports students and apprentices, will increase to $793.60 per fortnight from 1st October 2025. This adjustment reflects the government’s commitment to helping young Australians manage living expenses while they pursue education or apprenticeships.
This new rate marks a significant increase from the previous allowance, aimed at addressing the rising costs of living and providing more financial stability for students and apprentices across the country.
Payment Dates for ABSTUDY Living Allowance
ABSTUDY recipients will see their payments updated from 1st October 2025. As usual, the ABSTUDY Living Allowance will be distributed fortnightly. Payments will be made every second Thursday, starting with the first payment on 1st October 2025. The regular payment schedule will continue thereafter.
For those who prefer to receive payments more frequently, weekly payments are available. Students or apprentices facing financial hardship or in need of additional support can apply for weekly payments through their Centrelink account linked to myGov.
Eligibility Criteria for ABSTUDY Living Allowance
To qualify for the ABSTUDY Living Allowance, applicants must meet certain eligibility criteria. These include:
- Age Requirement: Applicants must be aged between 16 and 24 years.
- Residency: To qualify, applicants must be Australian citizens, permanent residents, or hold specific temporary visas.
- Study Requirements: Applicants must be enrolled in full-time secondary or tertiary education, or be an Australian Apprentice.
- Independence: Some recipients may be considered “independent” based on the financial assessment and other eligibility conditions, such as living away from home for study.
The allowance is designed to assist with living expenses during periods of full-time study or apprenticeship, ensuring that young Australians have the resources to continue their education without financial barriers.
Apply for ABSTUDY Living Allowance
Eligible students and apprentices can apply for the ABSTUDY Living Allowance through the Services Australia website or via their myGov account. To apply, follow these steps:
- Create or Log In to Your myGov Account: If you don’t already have a myGov account, you will need to create one.
- Link your Centrelink Account: Once your myGov account is set up, link it to your Centrelink account.
- Submit the ABSTUDY Application: Complete the application for the ABSTUDY Living Allowance. You will be required to provide details about your course, study program, and living arrangements.
- Wait for Confirmation: After submission, Services Australia will assess your application and notify you of the outcome.
In addition to the standard ABSTUDY Living Allowance, recipients may also be eligible for other forms of financial assistance, such as rent assistance or youth allowance, depending on individual circumstances.
Related Links
Apply for Himachal Pradesh Bonafide Certificate Online: Here’s a Step-by-Step Guide
Apply for Goa Residence Certificate Online: Check Step-by-Step Process
Apply for PM e-Bus Seva Scheme Online: Step-by-Step Guide for Registration
Additional Support for ABSTUDY Recipients
ABSTUDY recipients may also qualify for additional financial support depending on their circumstances. Key forms of assistance include:
- Rent Assistance: If you are renting privately and meet eligibility criteria, you may be eligible for rent assistance.
- Supplementary Allowances: Recipients can access various supplementary payments to assist with additional costs, such as the Energy Supplement or Education Supplements, available to eligible students.
Contact Information for ABSTUDY Assistance
If you have any questions or need assistance with your ABSTUDY Living Allowance application or payments, you can contact Services Australia through the following channels:
- ABSTUDY Contact Line: Call 1800 132 317 for assistance regarding ABSTUDY Living Allowance.
- Hours of Operation: Monday to Friday, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM (local time).
- myGov Account: For managing your ABSTUDY account, including applications and payment tracking, use your myGov account linked to Centrelink.
Additionally, you can visit the nearest Centrelink Service Centre for in-person assistance or to submit documents in person.