LOCAL high school leavers might be enjoying a well-earned summer break, but those thinking about going on to tertiary study or starting an apprenticeship should start applying for Youth Allowance now.
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Federal Member for Lyne, David Gillespie said eligible local students 16 to 24 could lodge their claim 13 weeks before their course or apprenticeship commences and students are able to apply now to ensure their payments start as soon as they begin the next stage in their lives.
The New Year period is one of the busiest for the Department of Human Services, which expects to receive the bulk of the 340,000 new Youth Allowance claims early in 2014.
Mr Gillespie said eligible students and apprentices could beat the rush by applying online now.
“Beginning the process now means students and apprentices will be able to focus on what’s important when they begin the next chapter of their lives - their studies,” Mr Gillespie said.
The amount of youth allowance that eligible students may receive depends on individual circumstances such as parental means, personal income and assets.
Once students begin receiving their payment they can use the Express Plus Students smartphone app to update their circumstances; including changes to their study details, income, address or relationship status.
Local students and parents can find out how to apply at www.humanservices.gov.au and stay up-to-date by subscribing to News for Students and Trainees. You can also stay informed by ‘liking’ the department’s Student Update Facebook page (www.facebook.com/StudentUpdate) and by following @StudentUpdateAU on Twitter.
