Many Australians, particularly students and families, are curious about the $3,000 Centrelink payment in 2025. If you’re wondering whether this payment is real and if you are eligible, you’re not alone.
The payment in question is called the Tertiary Access Payment (TAP), a one-off grant aimed at helping students from regional or remote areas relocate for their tertiary education.
What is the Tertiary Access Payment (TAP)?
The Tertiary Access Payment is a government initiative designed by Services Australia to ease the financial strain on students who need to relocate for tertiary education.
The payment is non-repayable, meaning there’s no need to pay it back. It’s available to students in their first year of full-time study, and the amount you receive depends on how remote your home is.
Payment Amounts:
- $3,000 for students from Inner Regional Areas.
- $5,000 for students from Outer Regional, Remote, or Very Remote Areas.
Who is Eligible for the Tertiary Access Payment?
To qualify for the Tertiary Access Payment, you must meet specific criteria. Here’s what you need to know:
Eligibility Criteria
- Completed Year 12 (or equivalent) in 2024.
- Relocation: Moving at least 90 minutes away from your family home to study.
- Full-time Enrollment: You must be enrolled full-time in a tertiary course (university or vocational).
- Age: Typically, students should be between 17 and 22 years old when beginning their studies.
- Income Test: Your parent’s income must be under $250,000 per year.
- Residency: You must be an Australian citizen or have an eligible visa.
Note: If you are already receiving ABSTUDY Living Allowance, you will not be eligible for the TAP.
Payment Amounts and Breakdown
The payment varies based on your location:
| Location | Payment Amount | Payment Method |
|---|---|---|
| Inner Regional Areas | $3,000 | Paid as a lump sum |
| Outer Regional/Remote Areas | $5,000 | Paid in two parts: $3,000 initially, $2,000 mid-year |
Step-by-Step Process to Apply for the $3,000 Centrelink Payment
Here’s a simple guide to help you apply for the Tertiary Access Payment:
1. Log in to myGov
Create or access your myGov account and link it to Centrelink.
2. Check Your Eligibility
Visit the Services Australia website and use their guide to confirm you meet all the criteria.
3. Make a Claim
- Go to Centrelink’s services
- Select “Make a Claim”
- Choose “Tertiary Access Payment”
4. Submit Documents
You will need to upload the following documents:
- Year 12 completion certificate
- Proof of tertiary enrollment
- Residential address details
- Parental income information
5. Track Your Status
Centrelink will either confirm your payment or ask for additional documents. Keep an eye on your myGov account for updates.
Common Myths vs. Facts
There are a few misconceptions about the Tertiary Access Payment that need to be cleared up:
- Myth: “Everyone under 25 gets the $3,000 Centrelink payment.”
- Fact: Only eligible students from regional areas who meet specific criteria can receive this payment.
- Myth: “It’s a loan I’ll have to repay.”
- Fact: This is a non-repayable grant, not a loan.
- Myth: “If I already receive Youth Allowance, I can’t apply.”
- Fact: You can receive both TAP and Youth Allowance if eligible.
Additional Payments You May Be Eligible For
In addition to the Tertiary Access Payment, there are other government payments and allowances for students:
- Youth Allowance
- This is a fortnightly payment for students and apprentices aged 16–24. It can be received alongside TAP if you meet the criteria.
- Relocation Scholarship
- Available to Youth Allowance or ABSTUDY recipients who move for study. The scholarship starts at $4,800 for the first year.
- Parental Leave Pay
- Eligible parents can receive up to 24 weeks of paid leave, including 12% superannuation contributions starting in July 2025.
The $3,000 Centrelink payment (Tertiary Access Payment) is a valuable financial assistance program designed to support students from regional or remote areas who need to relocate for tertiary education. It’s a non-repayable grant that can make a significant difference in your transition to university or vocational training.
To apply, be sure to prepare your documents early, check your eligibility, and submit your claim on time. Stay informed and make sure you don’t miss out on this opportunity in 2025.