From 20 March 2018, Newstart Allowance rates and thresholds will be indexed. Find out if your payment will be affected.
Newstart Allowance payment rates from 20 March 2018
| Family situation | Payment rate (per fortnight) |
| Single, 22 or over, no children | $545.80 |
| Single, 22 or over, with children | $590.40 |
| Single, 60 or over, after nine months | $590.40 |
| Partnered, each | $492.80 |
Income test
Under the income test applied to the Newstart Allowance, you can earn up to $104 per fortnight pre tax, before your payment is affected.
For income levels above $104 but less than $254 per fortnight, your payment will be reduced by 50 cents for every dollar you exceed the threshold. For income above $254 per fortnight your payment reduces by 60 cents until you reach the cut-off threshold.
Newstart Allowance thresholds from 20 March 2018
|
Family situation |
Payment cut-off threshold |
|
Single, 22 or over, no children |
$1053.34 |
|
Single, 22 or over, with children |
$1128.84 |
|
Single, 60 or over, after nine months |
$1139.17 |
|
Partnered, each |
$963.50 |
Newstart applicants will also be subject to an asset test.
For more information on Newstart, visit Humanservices.com.au
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