If you’re a student or apprentice in Australia trying to stay afloat while focusing on your studies, the Abstudy allowance might be exactly what you need. In September 2025, eligible applicants can receive up to $715.10 plus an additional $11.40 every fortnight.
This financial support is aimed at helping Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students meet the costs of living, studying, and commuting while they complete their education or training.
Overview
Abstudy is a government-provided payment through Centrelink, designed specifically for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students and apprentices. It supports those studying full-time or undertaking full-time apprenticeships, particularly if they’re living away from home.
Here’s a quick summary:
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Payment Amount | $715.10 + $11.40 (per fortnight) |
| Payment Date | September 2025 |
| Authority | Services Australia |
| Category | Student Financial Support |
| Country | Australia |
| Payment Frequency | Fortnightly |
| Application Method | Online via MyGov |
| Eligibility | Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander full-time students/apprentices |
Purpose
The goal of the Abstudy allowance is to make education accessible and affordable for Indigenous students and apprentices. Whether you’re living away from home, paying rent, commuting to your course, or just trying to keep up with everyday costs like food or internet, this allowance is here to help reduce the financial burden.
Eligibility
Wondering if you’re eligible for the Abstudy payment? Here’s what you need to meet:
- You must be of Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander descent
- You should be an Australian citizen or permanent resident
- Must be living in Australia while applying and receiving payments
- Be enrolled in a full-time course or apprenticeship at a recognised institute
- Your age and study level will also impact eligibility:
- If you’re under 16, a parent or guardian must apply on your behalf
- If you’re 16 or older, you can apply yourself
- You must maintain satisfactory attendance and academic progress
Amounts
The listed $715.10 + $11.40 per fortnight is not a fixed amount for all. The final payment can vary depending on:
- Your age
- Whether you’re dependent or independent
- Who you live with (parents, guardian, or independently)
- Your living situation (on-campus, remote, city, etc.)
Also, additional supplements and travel allowances may apply in some situations. Here’s a general reference table:
| Age Group | Approx. Payment (Fortnightly) |
|---|---|
| Under 18 | $410.30 |
| 18 to 21 | $472.50 |
| 22 or older | $781.10 |
Note: These figures include related youth/parenting payment benchmarks but vary by case.
Application
Applying for Abstudy is easy if you follow the steps below:
- Get your documents ready: This includes your identity documents, proof of Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander descent, enrollment confirmation, and residential info.
- Create a MyGov account: Head to Services Australia and link your MyGov with Centrelink.
- Start your claim: Navigate to the ‘Make a Claim’ section, and choose the ABSTUDY option.
- Fill in your details: Include information about your course, living situation, and finances.
- Submit the application: Upload all the necessary documents and submit for review.
- Track your claim: You can monitor the progress and receive updates via MyGov.
Schedule
Once approved, your payments will begin in September 2025 and will be disbursed every two weeks. You’ll be notified via MyGov of your upcoming payments, and you can always log in to check the details.
Residents
The payment is only available for those residing in Australia. Even if you’re studying remotely or online, you need to be living within the country at the time of applying and receiving benefits.
Tips
- Always update your study status if you switch courses or institutions
- Let Centrelink know if your living arrangements or income changes
- Use the Services Australia calculator to estimate your expected payments
Summary Table
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Benefit Name | Abstudy Allowance |
| Payment Amount | $715.10 + $11.40 per fortnight |
| Eligibility | Indigenous full-time students/apprentices |
| Payment Frequency | Fortnightly |
| Application Method | Online via MyGov |
| Next Payment Date | September 2025 |
If you’re studying full-time, doing an apprenticeship, and qualify as an Indigenous Australian, this allowance can help lighten the financial load. From course fees to bus fares, every bit counts. Apply online, upload your documents, and stay focused on your education without worrying as much about money.
FAQs
Who can claim Abstudy in 2025?
Indigenous students or apprentices in full-time study.
What is the Abstudy fortnightly amount?
Up to $715.10 plus $11.40 depending on eligibility.
How do I apply for Abstudy online?
Use MyGov and link Centrelink to submit your application.
Do I need to live away from home?
Not always, but it may affect your payment amount.
Is Abstudy available to under-16s?
Yes, but a parent or guardian must apply for them.











