Domestic Purposes Benefit – Sole Parent Assistance for Study Costs factsheet
Extra help is available for people who receive Domestic Purposes Benefit – Sole Parent, and who are undertaking tertiary study at level 4 or above.
You can apply for Study Costs for course related expenses such as:
- transport to and from your course, including car running costs
- childcare costs (less any childcare assistance)
- baby sitting or other child minding costs
- books and stationery
- course equipment and materials
- other costs that we determine are necessary for your study.
How much can you get
The maximum amount you can apply for is $500.00. You can apply up to 5 times in a 52 weeks period, but you cannot receive more than $500.00 in total, and you have to repay it (see below). This assistance is interest and tax free.
Who’s not eligible for Study Costs
The Assistance for Study Costs is not available to people who:
- are studying towards postgraduate diplomas, postgraduate certificates
- are studying for bachelors with honors, masters or doctorate degrees
- are receiving grand-parented Training Incentive Allowance at level 4 or above
- have not exhausted the Course Related Costs component of their Student loan if they have entitlement.
Repaying the Assistance for Study Payment
You won’t need to make any repayment until you finish your course, leave the course or you stop receiving a Domestic Purposes Benefit – Sole Parent, whichever comes first. You will need to negotiate the amount to be repaid with Work and Income. The minimum amount you must repay is $4.00 a week unless you have exceptional circumstances.
How to apply
You will need to make an appointment with your case manager and you should bring proof of the costs that you’re applying for, such as receipts, invoices or vehicle logs.
