Indigenous students who are planning to study full time or start an Australian Apprenticeship in 2019 should plan ahead and lodge their claim for ABSTUDY now.
ABSTUDY is designed to help Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Australians with the costs of studying or completing an Australian Apprenticeship, with additional assistance available for travel, board and other associated costs.
Minister for Human Services and Digital Transformation Michael Keenan encouraged prospective students to apply early, noting the recent addition of online claiming services is making it easier and faster to lodge a claim.
"We know that preparing to study can be a stressful time, so we are working hard to modernise all of our payments to ensure Indigenous students have the best possible opportunity to get the most out of their university study or apprenticeship program," Mr Keenan said.
"Indigenous apprentices have been able to claim ABSTUDY online since June 2018 and my Department has already been receiving positive feedback about this enhancement.
"The online system allows students to simply update any of their details online once they are in receipt of ABSTUDY, saving them a trip to a service centre or a phone call to the Department, especially if they live in a remote community.
"The Coalition is committed to supporting Indigenous Australian students to pursue their passion through training or study, so I would encourage everyone who is eligible to get in early and apply now."
Indigenous apprentices can claim ABSTUDY allowance online through their myGov account.
Indigenous students can claim now by calling 1800 132 317.
