Immediate Steps
- Check your entitlements — unused annual leave, long service leave, notice period, and redundancy pay must all be paid out
- Claim on Centrelink — apply for JobSeeker Payment through myGov immediately. There may be a waiting period if you received a redundancy payout
- Don't touch your super — you can't access super early just because you lost your job (severe financial hardship provisions exist but are limited)
- Get your PAYG summary — your employer must provide this for your tax return
- Review your budget — cut non-essential expenses while you look for work
Redundancy Pay
If you're made redundant (not fired for performance), you're entitled to redundancy pay based on years of service. The NES minimum is 4 weeks pay for 1 year of service, up to 16 weeks for 9+ years. Your award or contract may provide more.
| Years of Service | Redundancy Pay (NES minimum) |
|---|---|
| 1 year | 4 weeks |
| 2 years | 6 weeks |
| 3 years | 7 weeks |
| 4 years | 8 weeks |
| 5 years | 10 weeks |
| 6–7 years | 11–12 weeks |
| 8–9 years | 14–16 weeks |
| 10+ years | 12 weeks |
JobSeeker Payment
The main income support payment while looking for work. Currently about $762/fortnight for singles, $693/fortnight each for couples. Apply through myGov → Centrelink as soon as possible — processing takes 1–2 weeks.
Your Rights in TAS
If you believe your termination was unfair, you can lodge a claim with the Fair Work Commission within 21 days. Contact Fair Work on 13 13 94 for free advice.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much is JobSeeker Payment?
About $762/fortnight for singles (2025–26). You'll also get energy supplement and may qualify for Rent Assistance. Apply through myGov as soon as possible.
Can I access my super if I lose my job?
Generally no. Super is preserved until preservation age (60). Severe financial hardship provisions exist but require you to have been on income support for 26+ weeks.
How much redundancy pay am I entitled to?
The NES minimum ranges from 4 weeks (1 year of service) to 16 weeks (9+ years). Your award, enterprise agreement, or employment contract may provide more.