The Centrelink Relocation Scholarship is a government initiative aimed at easing the financial burden on students relocating for full-time tertiary education. Designed specifically for students from regional and remote areas in Australia, this scholarship helps cover the additional costs of moving and living away from home to pursue higher education.
Benefit Amounts for 2024
The scholarship is structured to provide different amounts based on the year of study and eligibility criteria:
- First-Year Payment: Eligible students receive $5,385 in their first year of relocation for study. This is intended to cover the high initial costs of moving and settling into a new city.
- Second and Third-Year Payments: Students receive $2,693 per year for their second and third years of study if they continue meeting the eligibility requirements.
- Subsequent Years Payment: For students beyond the third year or those who do not qualify for higher payments, the amount is reduced to $1,345 annually.
These amounts recognize the challenges and costs faced by students moving away from rural or remote areas to access tertiary education opportunities.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for the Centrelink Relocation Scholarship, applicants must meet the following requirements:
1. Student Status
- Be a full-time student enrolled in an approved higher education course.
- Be receiving Youth Allowance, ABSTUDY Living Allowance, or Energy Supplement through Centrelink.
2. Residency
- Students must have relocated from a regional or remote area to study in an urban location.
- Residency in a rural or remote area must be established for at least six months before commencing tertiary education.
3. Dependency Status
- Dependent students must have families residing in regional or remote Australia.
- Independent students must meet specific criteria for independence as defined by Centrelink.
4. Exclusions
- Students who have already received a relocation scholarship for a previous course or year are not eligible for the full first-year payment but may qualify for reduced payments in subsequent years.
Application Process
- Check Eligibility: Confirm eligibility for Youth Allowance or ABSTUDY and the relocation scholarship through Centrelink’s website or by contacting Services Australia.
- Apply Online: Log in to your myGov account linked to Centrelink and complete the application under your Youth Allowance or ABSTUDY payment profile.
- Provide Documentation: Submit proof of enrollment, residential details, and other required documentation.
- Await Assessment: Centrelink will review your application and notify you of your eligibility and payment details.
Benefits of the Relocation Scholarship
- Financial Assistance: Eases the cost of moving, rent, and living expenses for students studying away from home.
- Encourages Higher Education: Promotes access to education for students in regional and remote Australia who might otherwise face financial barriers.
- Supports Continuation of Studies: Provides ongoing financial support through subsequent years of study.
Relocation Scholarship Payments
| Year of Study | Amount (2024) |
|---|---|
| First Year | $5,385 |
| Second Year | $2,693 |
| Third Year | $2,693 |
| Fourth Year and Beyond | $1,345 |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can international students apply for the Relocation Scholarship?
No, the scholarship is available only to Australian citizens, permanent residents, and eligible special category visa holders.
2. Do students living in urban areas qualify for the scholarship?
No, this scholarship is specifically for students relocating from regional or remote areas to urban locations for study.
3. How often are the payments made?
The scholarship is paid annually, typically at the start of the academic year.
4. Is this scholarship taxable?
No, the Relocation Scholarship is exempt from taxation.
5. What if I fail to maintain full-time student status?
Students who drop below full-time status may lose their eligibility for future payments