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Newstart Allowance
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You may qualify for a Newstart Allowance if you are unemployed and aged between 21 and Age Pension age. You must also be prepared to enter into, and comply with, a Preparing for Work Agreement if required.
If you are aged 50 or over, there is a more flexible Activity Test requirement called a Participation Agreement. You must meet all of your Activity Test requirements of actively looking for work and attending job interviews and training. As part of your Mutual Obligation you may have to participate in employment and community activities or training and assistance programs.
This allowance is subject to an income and assets test. If you are incapacitated while you are on Newstart Allowance, or have been on the allowance for more than nine months and you are over 60, you will receive a Pharmaceutical Allowance. You may also be eligible for an Employment Entry Payment, an Education Entry Payment or Rent Assistance.
If you are participating in Work for Dole you may be entitled to an additional fortnightly payment.
