What age do you get paid for ABSTUDY?

ABSTUDY provides financial assistance to students and apprentices who meet certain eligibility criteria. The age at which a person may be eligible to receive ABSTUDY payments can vary depending on the specific circumstances and the type of study or training they are undertaking.

However, from age 16, your child may get a fortnightly payment of ABSTUDY Living Allowance. This payment helps with living costs. Their payment rate will depend on you and your child’s income.

If your child is 18 or older on 1 January in the year of study, they may also get ABSTUDY Incidentals Allowance. This is paid once a year to help buy study materials.

Here are some general guidelines regarding the age requirements for ABSTUDY:

  1. Primary and secondary students: ABSTUDY is available to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students who are enrolled in primary or secondary school. There is generally no minimum age requirement for primary and secondary students to receive ABSTUDY payments.
  2. Tertiary students: Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students undertaking tertiary education, such as university or vocational education and training (VET), may be eligible for ABSTUDY. Tertiary students are typically 16 years or older, as they have usually completed their secondary education.
  3. Australian Apprentices: ABSTUDY can also provide financial assistance to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Australians undertaking an Australian Apprenticeship or traineeship. Apprenticeships and traineeships generally have a minimum age requirement of 15 years, but there can be exceptions for specific circumstances or industries.

It’s important to note that specific eligibility criteria and age requirements for ABSTUDY can vary, and additional factors may be considered. To determine eligibility and the age at which you or someone you know may be eligible for ABSTUDY, it’s best to visit the official Services Australia website or contact Centrelink directly. They will be able to provide you with accurate and up-to-date information based on your circumstances.