Turning 16
People turning 16 years of age may be able to get financial help, services and payments from the the department of Human Services.
Who does this information apply to?
This applies if you are:
- turning 16 years of age and looking for full-time work, studying, training or undertaking an Australian Apprenticeship or traineeship full-time.
- families or carers of a dependent who is turning 16
Financial support
If you are turning 16 you may be eligible for services and payments from Centrelink. Depending on your or your family’s circumstances you may receive Youth Allowance or ABSTUDY, which provides financial support while you are looking for work, studying, training or undertaking an Australian Apprenticeship. The Disability Support Pension is also available to assist young people who have a disability.
Parents or carers of a person turning 16
If you have a dependent child who is turning 16, you should talk to Centrelink about what is the most appropriate income support for your family. For example, if you have been receiving Family Tax Benefit for your child, check whether it may be better for you financially if your child applies for Youth Allowance.
Health services
If you are 16 years of age you can apply for your own Medicare card. Visit your local Medicare Service Centre to complete a Medicare Copy/Transfer form. You will need to provide identification, such as a student card or birth certificate, as well as details about the card you are transferring from.
You can also register your donation decision on the Australian Organ Donor Register.
If you are aged 12 to 17, the Medicare Teen Dental Plan helps cover the costs of a yearly dental check-up.