Increase in Youth Allowance and Austudy payments

Around 390,000 Australian students and young people will receive an increase in their Youth Allowance and Austudy payments from next year, Minister for Children and Youth Affairs, Larry Anthony, said today.

“The boost to the payments comes into effect from 1 January 2004 and is in line with changes to the Consumer Price Index.

“Depending on the recipient’s family and living arrangements, Youth Allowance payments will increase between $4.60 and $11.00 a fortnight, and Austudy payments will be boosted between $8.40 and $11.00 a fortnight.

“Young people aged 16 or 17 years who are living at home and eligible for Youth Allowance could receive up to an extra $119.60 annually. Young people living away from home could get up to $218.40 extra a year.

“A single person with dependent children who is eligible to receive either the maximum rate of Youth Allowance or Austudy could get up to $286 extra a year.

“Youth Disability Pension, Youth Disability Supplement and Mobility Allowance and the personal income cut offs for Youth Allowance and Austudy payments will also rise from
1 January 2004.

“By lifting payment rates to keep pace with the costs of living, the Australian Government is ensuring that students and young Australians can continue to maximise their potential through further education, training and preparation for employment.

“The increase to these payments demonstrates the Government’s commitment to supporting young people and students. We will continue to invest in the knowledge, skills and learning of all Australians,” Mr Anthony said.