For Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students and apprentices, juggling study and living costs can be tough. That’s why the Abstudy Living Allowance is getting a boost in September 2025, with payments up to $793.60 fortnightly for eligible Aussies. 0 This support covers essentials like rent and food, making education more achievable. Here’s everything you need to know to tap into this help.
What Is the Abstudy Living Allowance?
Abstudy is a lifeline for Indigenous students and full-time apprentices, helping with daily expenses during study. 3 From September 20, 2025, payments rise to keep up with inflation, ensuring you can focus on school or training without financial stress. 20 It’s part of a broader program to close education gaps for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities.
Who Can Get Abstudy in 2025?
Eligibility is straightforward but specific:
- Be of Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander descent, accepted by your community. 10
- Enrolled full-time in approved secondary, tertiary, or apprenticeship programs. 12
- Australian resident, meeting income and asset tests. 2
- Not on similar payments like Youth Allowance or Austudy. 12
Even students in custody over two weeks may qualify. 14 Parents can claim for kids under 16.
New Payment Rates for September 2025
Payments vary by age and living situation. Here’s the max fortnightly rates after the September 20, 2025, indexation: 0
| Age Group | Dependent (At Home) | Independent (Away from Home) |
|---|---|---|
| Under 18 | $410.30 | Up to $472.50 |
| 18–21 | $472.50 | Up to $568.80 |
| 22+ | N/A | $793.60 |
These include energy supplements ($7.90–$14.10). 20 Add Rent Assistance (up to $188.20 fortnightly) if eligible. 17 Payments are taxable and means-tested.
More Than Just Living Allowance
Abstudy offers extra perks to ease study costs:
- Incidental Allowance: One-off help for books or equipment. 14
- School Term Allowance: Paid to parents for school kids’ expenses. 14
- Fares Allowance: Covers travel for students studying away from home. 17
These supports make education more accessible across the board.
How to Apply for Abstudy
Applying is simple via myGov. 5 Here’s how:
- Set up a myGov account and link Centrelink.
- Gather ID, proof of Indigenous descent (e.g., community letter), and enrollment details.
- Go to “Make a Claim” > Abstudy in your Centrelink account.
- Enter personal, study, and financial info.
- Upload documents and submit—track status online.
Start early to avoid delays, especially for 2025 school or training starts. Call 1800 105 021 for Abstudy-specific help. 5
Quick Program Snapshot
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Authority | Services Australia |
| Payment Name | Abstudy Living Allowance |
| Max Amount | $793.60 fortnightly (22+, independent) |
| Start Date | September 20, 2025 |
| Frequency | Fortnightly |
| Application | Online via myGov |
Check servicesaustralia.gov.au for exact details tailored to you.
This boost is a step toward fairer education access. If you’re eligible, claim it to focus on your studies, not your wallet.
FAQs
What is the Abstudy Living Allowance increase for 2025?
Up to $793.60 fortnightly for independent students 22+ from September 20, 2025. 0
Who is eligible for Abstudy?
Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander students/apprentices in full-time study, meeting residency and means tests. 10
Are Abstudy payments taxable?
Yes, the Living Allowance is taxable, unlike some other benefits. 20
What other Abstudy benefits exist?
Incidental, School Term, and Fares Allowances for extra study support. 14
How do I apply for Abstudy in 2025?
Online through myGov linked to Centrelink, with ID, enrollment, and Indigenous proof. 5