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Youth Allowance changes to make tertiary education more accessible for regional students

Youth Allowance changes to make tertiary education more accessible for regional students

14 December 2015

For decades farming families have experienced unfairness in having their farm counted as an asset in their assessment for Youth Allowance. However, from 1 January 2016 the Family Assets Test and the Family Actual Means Test will be removed from the Youth Allowance Personal Test.

An income test will still apply, but all dependent children will be taken into consideration in that assessment, which the Government says will "soften reductions in Youth Allowance" as family income increases.

The Isolated Children's Parents Association (ICPA) has been pushing for the change for almost 20 years, arguing that children from asset-rich but cash-poor families were being unfairly prevented from pursuing tertiary education.

Removing the assets test will allow thousands more people to qualify for an average annual youth payment of more than $7,000 a year.

To find out more visit the Human Services Youth Allowance web page HERE. Alternatively, make an appointment to speak with a Human Services consultant at your local Human Services branch. To find your nearest branch click HERE.

Source: ABC Rural. http://www.abc.net.au/news/2015-11-12/parents-celebrate-as-parliament-approves-youth-allowance-changes/6936282

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