ABSTUDY Allowance Raised January 2026 – The ABSTUDY Allowance increase to $793.60 from January 2026 marks an important support update for Indigenous students across Australia. ABSTUDY is designed to help Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Australians manage education-related living costs while studying or undertaking approved training. The latest adjustment reflects rising living expenses and aims to improve financial stability for eligible students and families. This update applies nationwide and is administered through Services Australia, ensuring continued access to education for Indigenous Australians while easing pressure from rent, food, and study-related costs.
ABSTUDY Allowance Increase 2026 for Australian Students
The January 2026 increase lifts the maximum ABSTUDY Living Allowance to $793.60 per fortnight for eligible Australian students studying away from home. This adjustment primarily benefits tertiary students, apprentices, and approved secondary students who rely on ABSTUDY as their main income support. The new rate aligns more closely with other student payment benchmarks while recognising the additional challenges faced by Indigenous learners. Payments are income and asset tested, meaning the final amount depends on personal circumstances such as age, study load, and living arrangements. For many students across Australia, this increase helps cover essential expenses without disrupting their focus on education.
Eligibility Rules for ABSTUDY Payments Across Australia
To qualify for the updated ABSTUDY payment in Australia, applicants must identify as Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander and be enrolled in an approved course or training program. Eligibility also depends on age, residency status, and whether the student is studying full-time or part-time. Income and assets of both the student and, in some cases, their parents are assessed under national guidelines. Students living away from home or supporting dependants may receive higher rates or additional supplements. The Canberra government continues to apply standard Services Australia assessments to ensure payments are targeted to those most in need.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Maximum Rate | $793.60 per fortnight (January 2026) |
| Eligible Group | Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students |
| Payment Frequency | Fortnightly |
| Administered By | Services Australia |
ABSTUDY Payment Dates and Ongoing Support for Australians
ABSTUDY payments are generally issued fortnightly, with the increased rate automatically applied from the first payment cycle in January 2026. Eligible Australians do not need to reapply if they are already receiving ABSTUDY and remain compliant with reporting requirements. Payment dates may vary slightly depending on public holidays or bank processing times. Alongside the Living Allowance, students may also access additional benefits such as Rent Assistance, Fares Allowance, and Incidentals Allowance. These combined supports help Indigenous Australians remain engaged in education while managing everyday living pressures.
Key ABSTUDY Updates from the Australian Government in 2026
The 2026 ABSTUDY update reflects the Australian government’s ongoing commitment to improving education outcomes for Indigenous communities. By adjusting payment rates, authorities aim to keep assistance aligned with inflation and real-world costs. Students are encouraged to regularly update their study and income information through their online Services Australia account to avoid payment delays. Outreach programs and community-based support services continue to assist applicants with claims and compliance. Across the nation, these updates reinforce ABSTUDY’s role as a long-term education support system rather than a short-term benefit.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
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1. When does the $793.60 ABSTUDY rate start?
The new ABSTUDY rate applies from January 2026 payments.
2. Do current ABSTUDY recipients need to reapply?
No, eligible recipients will receive the updated rate automatically.
3. Is ABSTUDY income tested in Australia?
Yes, income and assets are assessed to determine payment amounts.
4. Can ABSTUDY be combined with other supplements?
Yes, eligible students may also receive Rent Assistance and other supplements.
