JobSeeker is a crucial financial support program the Australian government provides to assist individuals who are unemployed or temporarily unable to work due to illness or injury.
Understanding how much you can earn while receiving JobSeeker payments is essential, as it directly impacts your eligibility and payment amount.
What is JobSeeker Payment?
JobSeeker Payment is designed for Australians aged between 22 and the age of Pension who are actively seeking employment or temporarily unable to work. It also applies to those recovering from illness or injury.
You must meet specific criteria to qualify, including income and asset tests, residency requirements, and mutual obligation conditions (such as actively looking for work).
How Much Can You Earn While Receiving JobSeeker?
Your earnings while on JobSeeker affect the amount you receive. The income test determines how much you can earn before your payment starts reducing.
Income Test Overview
- You can earn up to $150 per fortnight before your JobSeeker payment is reduced.
- For income between $150 and $256 per fortnight, your payment reduces by 50 cents for every dollar earned.
- For income above $256 per fortnight, your payment reduces by 60 cents for every dollar earned.
Partnered Applicants
If you have a partner, their income may also impact your payment. For example:
- Your partner’s income threshold is typically higher than yours. Still, if their earnings exceed the limit, it could reduce or eliminate your payment.
Cut-Off Thresholds
The maximum income you can earn before your payment stops entirely depends on your family situation:
- Single with no children: $1,337.50 per fortnight.
- Single with children: $1,425.50 per fortnight.
- Partnered: $1,232.84 per fortnight (each).
These thresholds vary slightly based on specific circumstances like age or caregiving responsibilities.
JobSeeker Payment Rates (2024)
The amount you receive depends on your situation.
As of November 2024:
- Single (no dependents): $1,100 per fortnight.
- Single (with dependents): $1,160 per fortnight.
- Partnered (each): $825 per fortnight.
- Single principal carer (exempt from mutual obligations): $987.70 per fortnight.
These rates are adjusted biannually (March and September) to account for inflation and rising living costs.
Eligibility Criteria
To receive JobSeeker payments, applicants must meet the following conditions:
- Be aged between 22 and Age Pension age.
- Satisfy income and asset tests.
- Be actively seeking work or temporarily unable to work due to illness/injury.
- Meet residency rules (e.g., Australian citizen or permanent resident).
Additional exemptions apply to single parents or individuals over 55 who meet specific conditions.
Key Considerations
Assets Test
Your assets also influence your eligibility:
- Homeowners: Asset limits are lower (e.g., $314,000 for singles).
- Non-homeowners: Higher asset limits apply (e.g., $566,000 for singles).
Taxable Payments
JobSeeker payments are taxable. You can request tax deductions from Centrelink to simplify end-of-year tax filing.
Mutual Obligations
Most recipients must fulfil mutual obligations, such as attending job interviews or participating in training programs. Exemptions exist for specific groups like single parents or individuals over 55.
FAQs
How much can I earn before my JobSeeker payment is reduced?
You can earn up to $150 per fortnight before reductions apply.
What happens if I exceed the income threshold?
If your earnings surpass the cut-off threshold for your situation, your payments will stop.
Are JobSeeker payments taxable?
Yes, they are taxable. You can request tax deductions from Centrelink.
What is the maximum JobSeeker rate for singles without children?
As of November 2024, it is $1,100 per fortnight.
