If you’re a student in Australia juggling textbooks, part-time work, and that ever-growing list of living costs, you’ve probably heard of Austudy. And in 2025, there’s some welcome news – the fortnightly Austudy base payment now sits at $699.50. For many, that extra bit of financial support can make a real difference when it comes to rent, groceries, and, let’s be honest, even the occasional coffee that keeps you alive during exam season.
But here’s the catch – not everyone can just walk in and grab it. Like most government support payments, there are specific rules and requirements you’ll need to meet. So, let’s break it all down. From eligibility criteria to payment details, this guide will give you a full picture of what you need to know in 2025.
What is Austudy?
Austudy is a Centrelink payment designed for students and apprentices who are 25 years or older. If you’re under 25, you’ll usually fall under Youth Allowance instead, unless you meet certain exceptions. In short, Austudy helps cover some of your everyday costs while you study or train, so you can actually focus on finishing that degree, diploma, or apprenticeship instead of stressing about bills 24/7.
The base rate in 2025 is $699.50 per fortnight for a single person without children. Keep in mind that your personal circumstances – like whether you have kids, live with a partner, or pay rent – can influence the exact amount you’ll receive.
Who is Eligible in 2025?
Here’s where things get a little tricky. The government doesn’t just hand out payments without conditions, and Austudy is no exception. To qualify for the $699.50 fortnightly Austudy rate, you generally need to meet the following:
1. Age Requirement
- You must be 25 or older when you start your study or apprenticeship.
- If you’re younger, you’ll likely be placed on Youth Allowance instead.
2. Study or Training
- You need to be enrolled in an approved course full-time.
- Part-time study might qualify if you have a special reason (like illness or caring responsibilities).
- Apprenticeships also count, provided they meet the government’s recognition rules.
3. Residency Rules
- You must be an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or hold an eligible visa.
- In most cases, you’ll also need to meet the residency period requirement, meaning you’ve lived in Australia for a certain amount of time before applying.
4. Income and Assets Test
- Like all Centrelink payments, there are income and assets thresholds.
- If you or your partner earn too much, your Austudy amount may reduce – or in some cases, you might miss out altogether.
- Assets like savings accounts, investments, or property (excluding your primary home) are also considered.
5. Course Load
- Full-time study generally means at least 75% of the normal course load.
- If you fall below that, you’ll need a valid reason (think medical certificate or formal approval).
How Much Will You Actually Get?
The base rate of $699.50 per fortnight is just the starting point. Your actual payment may look different depending on personal factors like:
- Are you single or partnered?
- Do you have children?
- Do you pay rent? (Rent Assistance might boost your payment.)
- Do you earn income on the side?
For example, if you’re a single student paying rent in a capital city, you might receive the base Austudy plus some Rent Assistance, giving you a higher fortnightly total. On the flip side, if you’re working part-time and pulling in decent wages, your Austudy could be reduced under the income test.
What’s New in 2025?
The jump to $699.50 per fortnight reflects the regular indexation of payments to keep up with inflation and rising costs of living. While it’s not a massive leap, it does give a bit of breathing space compared to older rates.
Honestly, though, many students still argue it’s not enough to cover the real cost of living in cities like Sydney or Melbourne. To be fair, that’s not a new complaint – but it’s worth knowing that every few months, rates are reviewed and adjusted, so it’s always a good idea to check the latest figures on Services Australia before planning your budget.
Why It Matters
For a lot of people, Austudy is the difference between being able to pursue further education or having to give it up entirely. It’s not just about financial help – it’s about giving older students the opportunity to retrain, study later in life, or complete apprenticeships that actually lead to stable employment.
Sure, $699.50 won’t suddenly make life luxurious. But it does cushion the blow of balancing studies with the rising cost of food, rent, and transport. And sometimes, that little cushion is exactly what keeps you going.
If you’re over 25 and hitting the books in 2025, Austudy is definitely something to look into. With a base payment of $699.50 per fortnight, it’s not going to solve all your money worries, but it’s designed to keep you afloat while you invest in your future.
Just remember: eligibility isn’t automatic. You’ll need to check your age, study load, income, residency, and personal situation before applying. But if you do tick all the boxes, Austudy could be the quiet support system that gets you through your studies without drowning in financial stress.
FAQs
1. Who can get Austudy in 2025?
Anyone aged 25 or older studying full-time or completing an apprenticeship, provided they meet residency and income rules.
2. How much is Austudy in 2025?
The base Austudy payment is $699.50 per fortnight for singles without children.
3. Can I work and still get Austudy?
Yes, but if your income goes over the threshold, your Austudy payment will reduce.
4. Do part-time students qualify?
Only in special circumstances, such as medical issues or caring responsibilities.
5. Can I get Rent Assistance with Austudy?
Yes, if you’re paying rent, you might be eligible for additional Rent Assistance on top of your Austudy.