Centrelink has made significant changes to the Tertiary Access Payment, allowing a broader range of students to benefit from this cash support.
Now, eligible students who relocate from regional or remote areas for tertiary education can receive up to $5,000 in funding.
Key Changes to Eligibility
Previously, the Tertiary Access Payment was available only to students who moved directly from high school to university or TAFE in the following year.
This restriction has now been lifted, meaning that students who take a gap year or multiple gap years are no longer excluded from claiming the payment.
This update ensures that more students can access this cash support, regardless of their study timeline.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for the Tertiary Access Payment, applicants must meet the following conditions:
- Age: You must be 22 years old or younger on the day you begin your tertiary course.
- Residency: You must be an Australian resident.
- Location: You need to be from a regional, outer regional, or remote area. Additionally, your tertiary education provider must be at least 90 minutes away from your home by public transport.
- Education: You should have completed Year 12 or its equivalent and be enrolled in a tertiary course at a Certificate IV level or above.
- Income: If you are a dependent student, your parent or guardian’s income should not exceed the $250,000 combined income limit.
How the Payment is Structured
The Tertiary Access Payment is structured as follows:
- $5,000 is available for students moving from outer regional or remote areas, which will be provided in two instalments.
- $3,000 is available for students relocating from inner regional areas as a lump sum payment.
Impact on Students Receiving Other Payments
The Tertiary Access Payment is independent of the Youth Allowance and ABSTUDY payments. Therefore, if you receive any of these payments, you can still claim the Tertiary Access Payment separately.
This also means you may be eligible for the payment even if you do not qualify for Youth Allowance.
Decline in Regional and Remote Students
The number of students moving from regional and remote areas to tertiary institutions fell by 1.1% in 2023, with 79,396 students reported by the Department of Education.
This decline could be attributed to the growing cost of living, which makes it more challenging for students to afford relocation and study expenses.
Application Process for Tertiary Access Payment
If you meet the eligibility criteria, you can apply for the Tertiary Access Payment by December 31 of your first year of study. It’s essential to submit your claim on time to receive the full benefit.
The Tertiary Access Payment is a valuable resource for students from regional and remote areas who are pursuing tertiary education.
With expanded eligibility and a streamlined application process, more students can now access this financial aid, easing the burden of relocation costs and study expenses. Be sure to check your eligibility and apply within the specified timeline.
FAQs
Who qualifies for the Tertiary Access Payment?
To qualify, you must be an Australian resident from a regional, outer regional, or remote area, moving to study at a tertiary institution that is at least 90 minutes away from home.
Can I receive the Tertiary Access Payment if I get Youth Allowance?
Yes, the Tertiary Access Payment is independent of Youth Allowance, so you can claim both.
What is the deadline for applying for the Tertiary Access Payment?
You must apply for the payment by December 31 of your first year of study.