In 2025, Centrelink will introduce a new financial initiative, Tertiary Access Payment (TAP), to assist students with the high costs of starting their tertiary education.
The program offers a one-time payment of $3,000 to help cover relocation expenses for students moving from regional and remote areas.
What is the Tertiary Access Payment (TAP) Program?
The Tertiary Access Payment (TAP) is a one-off payment provided by the Australian government, aimed at supporting students who are relocating to pursue higher education.
The payment, which ranges from $3,000 to $5,000, is designed to assist with the costs of moving from one state or city to another for tertiary studies starting in 2025.
This financial assistance will be particularly beneficial for students who need support with relocation expenses as they embark on their academic journey.
Eligibility for the $3,000 Payment from Centrelink
To qualify for the $3,000 payment, students must meet the following criteria:
- Relocate from an inner regional area to study full-time at a tertiary institution.
- Have completed Year 12 (or its equivalent) in 2024.
- Be 22 years of age or younger when starting tertiary education.
- Fulfill income and residency requirements.
Who Will Receive the $5,000 Payment?
Students moving from remote, regional, or very remote areas may be eligible for a $5,000 payment. This payment is distributed in two parts:
| Payment Amount | When You Receive It |
|---|---|
| $3,000 | At the start of studies |
| $2,000 | Later in the year |
Key Changes in Centrelink’s Support
Starting in 2025, students who have taken a gap year (or longer) after finishing Year 12 will also be eligible for the TAP. However, the eligibility criteria remain that students must be 22 years old or younger when commencing tertiary education.
How to Apply for the TAP?
The TAP application period runs from January 1, 2025, to December 31, 2025. To apply, students need to:
- Visit Centrelink through myGov.
- Submit necessary documents, including proof of enrolment and a change of address.
- Provide bank account details to receive the payment.
Why is the TAP Payment Important for Students?
The rising cost of living has made it increasingly difficult for students to afford moving away from home to pursue their education. The Centrelink payment will help alleviate the financial burden by covering costs such as travel expenses, accommodation, study supplies, and rent.
The Tertiary Access Payment (TAP) offers significant financial assistance to students starting their tertiary education in 2025.
By covering relocation expenses, this program ensures that more students have the opportunity to pursue higher education without the financial burden of moving to a new city or state. If you’re eligible, don’t miss out on this valuable support—apply before the year ends to take advantage of this benefit.
FAQs
What is the Tertiary Access Payment (TAP)?
The TAP is a one-time payment designed to help students with relocation expenses when moving to another state or city for their higher education.
How much is the payment for students from remote areas?
Students from remote, regional, or very remote areas are eligible to receive $5,000—$3,000 at the start of their studies and an additional $2,000 later in the year.
Can students who took a gap year apply for TAP?
Yes, starting in 2025, students who took a gap year after finishing Year 12 are eligible to apply for the TAP, as long as they are 22 years old or younger when they begin their studies.
How do I apply for the TAP?
Students can apply for the TAP through Centrelink via myGov, where they will need to provide proof of enrolment, a change of address, and their bank account details.