ParentsNext eligibility rules are changing

If you get Parenting Payment you may need to take part in ParentsNext if all of these apply:

• you have a child aged 9 months to 6 years
• you’re over 15 and under 55 years of age
• you’ve been getting Parenting Payment continuously and haven’t worked in the last 6 months.

One of the following must also apply:

• you’re under 22 and haven’t finished Year 12 or the same level of study
• you’re 22 or over, didn’t complete Year 12 or the same level of study, and got income support for at least 2 years
• you finished Year 12 and got income support for more than 4 years.

In certain circumstances, you may be able to get an exemption.

We’ll let you know if you must participate in ParentsNext. If you’re getting Parenting Payment but you’re not eligible for ParentsNext, you may be able to volunteer.

From 1 July 2021, all participants, including volunteers, can apply to get access to:

• financial help for job preparation skills
• training
• other work-related costs.

Talk to your ParentsNext provider to find out more including how to apply.

While you’re getting Parenting Payment, you’ll also need to:

• report your income to us
• report your ParentsNext program participation, if you need to take part, to your provider
• tell us about a change of circumstances.

Next steps

You can read more about:

• ParentsNext
• ParentsNext frequently asked questions on the Department of Education, Skills and Employment website.

You can also:

• call us on the Families line if you want to volunteer
• find a ParentsNext provider on the jobactive website.