You may be independent for Youth Allowance or ABSTUDY if you earned at least $15,000 from seasonal agricultural work between 30 November 2020 and 31 December 2021.

This might include shearing sheep, farmhand work, or picking fruit.

Students who are independent get a higher payment rate.

You’ll only be able to claim independence in this way until 1 March 2023. From 2 March 2023, this form of independence will no longer be used.

Read more about being independent through seasonal agricultural work for Youth Allowance and seasonal agricultural work for ABSTUDY.