Permanent independence

If you’re 22 or older we’ll treat you as permanently independent. We may also do this in certain circumstances.

You may be permanently independent if you’re 22 or older. You may also be independent if any of the following apply. You:

can show you support yourself through work
are, or have been, married or are in a registered relationship
are in a de facto relationship for at least 12 months, or 6 months in special circumstances
have, or have had, a dependent child.

You may be independent if you’ve supported yourself through paid work.

You may be independent if you are or were married, or in a registered relationship.

You may be independent for Youth Allowance if you’ve been in a de facto relationship for at least 12 months or 6 months in special circumstances.

You may be independent for Youth Allowance if you have, or had, a dependent child.

Page last updated: 3 March 2022.

QC 55743

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