JobSeeker Rates (from 20 March 2026)
| Situation | Max Rate (per fortnight) |
|---|---|
| Single, no children | ~$795 |
| Single, with children | ~$851 |
| Single, 55+ (after 9 months) | ~$851 |
| Partnered (each) | ~$725 |
Rates include Energy Supplement. Indexed to CPI twice yearly (March and September). Check Services Australia for exact current amounts.
Income Test
You can earn some income before your payment reduces:
| Earnings (per fortnight) | Effect on Payment |
|---|---|
| $0 – $150 | No effect — you keep your full payment |
| $150 – $256 | Payment reduces by 50c per $1 earned |
| $256+ | Payment reduces by 60c per $1 earned |
Assets Test
Your assets (not including your home) must be below:
| Situation | Homeowner | Non-Homeowner |
|---|---|---|
| Single | ~$314,000 | ~$566,000 |
| Couple (combined) | ~$470,000 | ~$722,000 |
How to Apply
- Set up a myGov account and link it to Centrelink (if you haven't already)
- Start your claim online through myGov → Centrelink → Make a Claim → JobSeeker Payment
- Provide your income and assets details, and identity documents
- Book and attend a phone or in-person appointment if required
- Once approved, you'll be backpaid to the date you submitted your claim
Apply as soon as you lose your job. Processing takes 1–2 weeks, and there may be a waiting period if you received a redundancy payout or have liquid assets above $5,500.
Mutual Obligations
To keep receiving JobSeeker, you must meet mutual obligations — typically searching for jobs, attending appointments with your employment services provider, and completing a set number of activities each month (100 points target). Exemptions may apply if you're ill, caring for someone, or experiencing family violence.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much is JobSeeker?
About $795 per fortnight for a single person with no children (from March 2026). This includes the Energy Supplement. Rates are indexed twice yearly.
Can I work and get JobSeeker?
Yes. You can earn up to $150 per fortnight without any reduction. Above that, your payment reduces by 50c per $1 (up to $256), then 60c per $1.
Is JobSeeker taxable?
Yes. JobSeeker Payment is taxable income. You may need to lodge a tax return. However, with the tax-free threshold at $18,200, many recipients pay little or no tax.
How long can I stay on JobSeeker?
There's no time limit. You can receive JobSeeker as long as you meet eligibility requirements and mutual obligations.