Youth Allowance
Single 16–17 — away from home
Equivalent to approximately $48.87 per day ($684.20 ÷ 14 days).
Young people aged 16–17 living away from home receive $684.20 per fortnight ($48.87 per day). The higher away-from-home rate accounts for independent living costs such as rent, food, and utilities. Youth Allowance is indexed on 1 January each year — the next increase takes effect 1 January 2027.
Income Test
Different income thresholds apply depending on whether you are looking for work or studying.
Looking for work (job seeker)
| Income free area | $150.00/fn |
| Disqualifying income | $1307.00/fn |
Student
| Income free area | $539.00/fn |
| Disqualifying income | $1697.17/fn |
Other Youth Allowance 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 .