Recently, the Federal Government have made changes to both JobKeeper and JobSeeker.

The Federal Government have confirmed they will not extend JobKeeper beyond the 28th of March 2021 leaving many workers uncertain about their future.

With thousands of workers still reliant on the JobKeeper program this short-sighted announcement to cut JobKeeper and slash JobSeeker is a disgraceful way for the Government to say “thank you” to workers who have carried Australia through the pandemic.

The USU/ASU has campaigned for the government to extend JobKeeper and increase the JobSeeker payments. We all deserve security and dignity and we will continue to fight for the right support for all USU/ASU members.

We are by your side and will continue to provide members with industry and workplace specific information as it becomes available.

We’ve put together the most up to date information about JobSeeker to answer some questions you might have about eligibility and how to access it.

Am I eligible for JobSeeker payments? What are the rates?

Your eligibility for JobSeeker payments will depend on your individual situation. You can find more information and make a claim for JobSeeker payments here.

Your situation (meeting eligibility criteria)

Maximum fortnightly payment from 1 April 2021

Single, no children

$620.80

Single, with a dependent child or children

$667.50

Single, 60 or older, after 9 continuous months on payment

$667.50

Partnered

$565.40

Single principal carer granted an exemption from mutual obligation requirements

$850.20

 

What is changing?

A number of changes have recently been made to the JobSeeker payments which come into effect on 1 April, including:

  • Eligibility if you are unable to do your usual work or study
  • Fortnightly rates will increase from Single – $620.80, Single with a dependent – $667.50, Partnered $565.40, excluding other payments like rent assistance
  • You may have to wait if you or your partner have liquid assets over certain limits
  • You may be required to look for at least 15 jobs a month, and attend face-to-face appointments with a job services provider.

You can start your JobSeeker Claim here

What happens if I am stood up or stood down whilst receiving JobSeeker?

Depending on how many hours per fortnight you work and your individual circumstances, you may still be able to get an income support payment. Contact Services Australia to find out what you are eligible for.

What about mutual obligations?

For other mutual obligations requirements Contact Services Australia for more information.

Mutual obligation requirements are tasks and activities you will need to do to get the JobSeeker payment. From 1 April 2021 the minimum number of job searches you will need to do if you are a job seeker is 15, with this to increase to 20 jobs at 1 July 2021.

How much can I earn per fortnight and still receive the maximum rate of JobSeeker?

Depending on your family situation, the amount of money you earn may impact your JobSeeker payment. Contact Services Australia for more information.

How will my partner’s income affect how much I get on JobSeeker?

Depending on your family situation and the amount of money your partner earns, your JobSeeker payment may reduce.

Your situation (meeting eligibility criteria)

Payment reduces to $0 once your income reaches this amount per fortnight

Single, no children

$1,257.50

Single, with a dependent child or children

$1,675.25

Single, 60 or older, after 9 continuous months on payment

$1,346.17

Partnered

$3,086.11 for your partner’s income when you have income less than $300.

Single principal carer granted an exemption from mutual obligation requirements

$2,134.25

 

Please note: This is a guide only, please visit Services Australia in terms of your individual circumstances.

What about assets tests?

Your payment may stop depending on the value of your assets. Assets include things like: financial investments; home contents, personal effects, vehicles and other assets; real estate annuities, income streams and superannuation pensions; and sole traders, partnerships, private trusts and private companies.

Your payment will cancel when your assets are more than the following amounts:

Family situation

Homeowners

Non-homeowners

Single

$268,000

$482,500

Couple combined

$401,500

$616,000

Other partner eligible, combined assets

$401,500

$616,000

 

Please note: This is a guide only, please visit Services Australia in terms of your individual circumstances.

 

Training opportunities with the ASU Career Launchpad

As a USU/ASU member you can also access free online training through the ASU Career Launchpad.  On demand sessions include:

  • Work Shouldn’t Hurt: Resilience, stress management and self-care
  • How to Land Your Next Job
  • Resume Writing Skills
  • Addressing Key Selection Criteria
  • Interview Skills

If you haven’t activated your ASU Career Launchpad account yet please contact us at communications@usu.or.au

If you have already activated your account then you are ready to register for sessions – just go to https://asucareerlaunchpad.tln.org.au/

What other support is available?

We know this is a very stressful time, if you or someone you know needs help do not hesitate to reach out to Lifeline 131114 or Beyond Blue 1300 224 636.

We’re by your side

If you have any questions or concerns please contact the USU on 1300 136 604 more information.

Disclaimer: This is general guidance only and was correct at the time of writing at 22 March 2021.

Please note: This is a guide only, please visit Services Australia in terms of your individual circumstances.