Unemployment Benefits in Australia

Unemployment Benefits in Australia

An example of current benefits available to the unemployed in Australia at September 2009

NEWSTART ALLOWANCE

Maximum fortnightly payment

• $456.00 single, no children
• $493.30 single, with dependent child(ren)
• $493.30 single, aged 60 or over, after nine continuous months on payment
• $411.50 Partnered (each)
• $574.50 single, principal carer of a dependent child

Plus you may also be entitled to some of these extra payments and benefits:

• Education Entry Payment – An extra, non-taxable Education Entry Payment supplement of $950 is also payable if you enrol in your course
• Health Care Card or Pension Concession Card – see note 1:
• Language, Literacy and Numeracy Program Supplement
• Pensioner Education Supplement
• Pharmaceutical Allowance – $6 per fortnight
• Remote Area Allowance
• Rent Assistance – up to $111.80 per fortnight
• Telephone Allowance – $23.40 per quarter
• Training Supplement -  $41.60 per fortnight is payable to eligible Newstart Allowance jobseekers
• Work for the Dole Supplement - an extra $20.80 per fortnight.

• Note 1: A Health Care Card also entitles you to various concession from State and Territory Governments and local councils—these could include:
  • discounts on property and water rates
  • discounts on energy bills
  • a telephone allowance
  • reduced fares on public transport
  • discounts on motor vehicle registration
  • free rail journeys.

More information at:

• • www.centrelink.gov.au/internet/internet.nsf/payments/newstart.htm