Young people becoming independent
We provide information, payments and services if you are between 15 and 24 years of age and becoming independent. Payments such as Youth Allowance and ABSTUDY support you while you study. We can also help you with career and financial advice for when it's time for you to make important decisions.
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Financial support for young people
If you are between 15 and 24 years of age, you may be eligible for payments and services from us, which can support you if you want to study or if you are becoming independent from your parents or carer.
Depending on your or your family’s circumstances, you can get 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 support young people who have a disability.
Help with important decisions
If you are turning 16, you may need to start making some important decisions.
You can attend a free Financial Information Service (FIS) seminar. Our Financial Information Service Officers present seminars that can help younger people who want to know about how they can save for their future.
Talk to a FIS Officer
You can phone 132 300 and ask to speak to a FIS officer. If possible, your questions will be answered over the phone. If there are complex issues to be discussed, the FIS officer may offer to arrange an appointment for you.
When you turn 16, you can also register for the Australian Organ Donor Register.
Young people and health services
If you’re aged 15 years, you can apply for your own Medicare card. Visit your local service centre to complete a Medicare Copy/Transfer Application form. You’ll need to provide identification, such as a student card or birth certificate, as well as details about the card you are transferring from.
For young people aged between 12 and 17, the Medicare Teen Dental Plan helps cover the costs of an annual dental check.
Other government and community support services
There are a range of government and community organisations that provide support services and useful information you may find helpful.
Australian Apprenticeships provides information and resources about Australian apprenticeships and the support available.
Headspace is the national youth mental health foundation and help young people who are going through a tough time.
MoneySmart offers tips and useful tools to support people make better financial decisions and help manage their money.
My future is Australia’s national career information and exploration service, helping people to make career decisions, plan career pathways and manage work transitions.
Study Assist provides information to current and prospective students about Australian Government assistance for financial tertiary study including information about subsidised fees and government loans.