FUTURE BONNER STUDENTS ENCOURAGED TO LODGE THEIR CLAIM NOW

Bonner locals who are planning to study or start an Australian Apprenticeship in 2019 should plan ahead and lodge their claim for Youth Allowance or Austudy now.

Youth Allowance is designed to provide financial assistance for eligible school leavers who wish to complete further study or training, while Austudy is available to eligible students and apprentices aged 25 or older.

Prospective students can submit a claim for Youth Allowance or Austudy up to 13 weeks before the start of their course or apprenticeship.

Minister for Human Services and Digital Transformation Michael Keenan encouraged students to apply early to avoid the last minute rush which occurs every year.

“As we get closer to the start of the new semester my Department usually sees an influx of claims, but prospective students can apply now to avoid the late rush and get a response in as little as 1 or 2 days,” Minister Keenan said.

“We have been working very hard to upgrade our digital services, making it easier for students to claim and manage their payments online, when and where it suits them.”

Federal Member for Bonner said the upgraded digital system improves the whole application experience and ensures students can spend more time focusing on their study.

“The online claim system tailors questions based on individual circumstances, which cuts processing times and streamlines the entire process for young Australians so they can focus more time on preparing for the next important chapter in their life”.

“The Coalition is committed to ensuring Australian students have the support they need to pursue their passion, whether that is at university or through an apprenticeship program, so I really encourage every local student who is eligible to get in early and apply now.”

Last year around 240,000 Australians applied for Austudy or Youth Allowance, with one third of these claims received in the first two months of the year.

Anyone who is interested in submitting a claim can do so online using their myGov account.

For more information you can visit humanservices.gov.au/students.