If you’re a student in Australia trying to balance study with the cost of living, chances are you’ve already heard whispers about Austudy. And in 2025, there’s some genuinely good news on that front—eligible students can now receive up to $700 fortnightly. That’s right, a decent bump that’s meant to help you focus more on your education and a little less on whether you can pay rent or buy groceries this week.
Let’s break it all down—what Austudy actually is, who qualifies, how much you can really expect, and what you need to do to get it.
What is Austudy, Anyway?
Austudy is a payment managed by Services Australia. It’s designed to support full-time students and apprentices who are 25 years or older. If you’re younger than 25, you’d usually look into Youth Allowance instead.
Think of Austudy as a lifeline for mature-age students—it helps cover living expenses while you’re studying, retraining, or picking up new qualifications. In 2025, the government has tweaked the rates so students get $700 every two weeks, which adds up to $1,400 per month.
Who Can Actually Get Austudy?
Here’s where the fine print matters. Not everyone who studies gets the payment. To be eligible, you’ll need to:
- Be 25 years or older.
- Be enrolled in a full-time approved course or doing a full-time apprenticeship.
- Be an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or hold an eligible visa.
- Meet the income and assets test.
- Show that you’re genuinely committed to study (yes, they do check attendance and progress sometimes).
Now, honestly, the income and assets tests can feel like a headache, but they’re there to make sure the support is going to people who actually need it.
How Much Can You Expect in 2025?
Okay, the numbers. This is what most people want to know first. In 2025, Austudy payments sit around $700 fortnightly for singles, though rates may differ depending on whether you have a partner or kids.
Here’s a quick look:
| Situation | Fortnightly Rate (approx.) | Monthly Equivalent |
|---|---|---|
| Single, no children | $700 | $1,400 |
| Partnered (combined income considered) | $650 | $1,300 |
| With children (extra family supplements may apply) | $770+ | $1,540+ |
So, to be fair, it’s not a fortune. But it’s definitely better than trying to juggle 20+ hours of work on top of full-time study with no support at all.
How to Apply for Austudy in 2025
Applying is pretty straightforward, though, like most Centrelink processes, you’ll want patience on your side. Here’s the short version:
- Set up a myGov account (if you don’t already have one).
- Link it to Centrelink.
- Fill out the Austudy claim form online.
- Provide the requested documents (this usually includes ID, proof of enrolment, income details, and sometimes rent statements).
- Wait for assessment.
Sometimes approval is quick; sometimes it drags. Pro tip: submit your application early, ideally before your semester starts, so payments are in place when you need them.
Can You Work While Getting Austudy?
Short answer: yes, but with limits.
The income test sets how much you can earn before your Austudy payments start shrinking. In 2025, the threshold is around $288 per fortnight before reductions kick in. Anything above that, and your payment decreases gradually.
This means you can still work a casual or part-time job, which is great for covering extra expenses. But if you earn too much, don’t be surprised when Centrelink starts trimming your Austudy.
Why This Matters in 2025
Let’s be real—the cost of living in Australia isn’t cheap right now. Rent prices are up, groceries seem to get pricier every month, and utilities are biting harder than ever. For students, it can feel impossible to keep up.
That’s why this Austudy increase is such a relief. While $700 fortnightly won’t cover everything, it does give students a fighting chance to focus more on their studies instead of worrying constantly about money.
On the flip side, critics argue that even with this boost, payments still fall short of covering actual living costs in major cities like Sydney or Melbourne. And to be fair, they have a point. But honestly, for many, it’s still a step in the right direction.
So, if you’re a student over 25 in 2025, Austudy could be your golden ticket to balancing study and life. It won’t solve every financial struggle, but it will lighten the load.
Make sure you check your eligibility, gather the right documents, and apply as soon as possible. Even if the payment doesn’t cover everything, $700 every two weeks is nothing to scoff at.
At the end of the day, Austudy is about opportunity—helping you focus on your education without being swallowed whole by bills and rent. And in a climate where every dollar counts, that matters more than ever.
FAQs
1. How much is Austudy in 2025?
Eligible students can receive up to $700 per fortnight, with higher amounts for those with children.
2. Do I need to be a full-time student to get Austudy?
Yes, Austudy requires you to be enrolled in a full-time approved course or apprenticeship.
3. Can I get Austudy if I’m under 25?
No, if you’re under 25, you’ll need to apply for Youth Allowance instead.
4. How long does Austudy take to be approved?
It varies, but typically between 2 to 6 weeks, depending on how quickly you provide documents.
5. Can I still work while on Austudy?
Yes, but if you earn more than $288 per fortnight, your payment will start reducing.