JobSeeker Payment
Single, 55 or older
Equivalent to approximately $61.39 per day ($859.40 ÷ 14 days).
Job seekers aged 55 and over receive $859.40 per fortnight ($61.39 per day). After nine continuous months on payment, eligible recipients gain access to a higher income free area, recognising the additional challenges older Australians face in the job market. JobSeeker is indexed twice a year — the next increase takes effect 20 March 2026.
Income Test
You can earn up to $150.00/fn before your payment reduces. Between $150.00 and $256.00/fn, your payment reduces by 50 cents per dollar. Above $256.00/fn, it reduces by 60 cents per dollar.
| Income free area | $150.00/fn |
| Taper rate ($150.00–$256.00/fn) | 50¢ per $1 |
| Taper rate (above $256.00/fn) | 60¢ per $1 |
| Payment stops at | $1611.67/fn |
Other JobSeeker rates
Rates verified against the DSS A Guide to Australian Government Payments and Services Australia . Last verified: 2026-02-25. View DSS rate schedule →
General guidance only. Verify your entitlements with Services Australia on 132 300 or at servicesaustralia.gov.au .