Are you a student in Australia trying to figure out how to survive the cost of living while studying? Well, let’s talk about something that might just save your wallet—Australia’s $2,140 Centrelink Student Payment. If you’ve been wondering whether you qualify for it, how to apply, or what it’s even for—this guide breaks it all down in the simplest way possible.
We’ll take a deep dive into everything you need to know about this payment and how it could be the lifeline you need to get through your studies stress-free.
What Exactly Is The $2,140 Centrelink Student Payment?
Let’s start with the basics. This $2,140 payment is a lump-sum financial support for eligible students in Australia. It’s usually offered under Centrelink’s umbrella of Youth Allowance, Austudy, or Abstudy—depending on your personal circumstances.
But this isn’t your regular weekly payment. This is an extra boost—think of it like a turbo shot of funds to help cover bigger expenses like textbooks, rent, transport, or even groceries when things get tight.
Why Is This Payment Important For Students?
Let’s be honest—being a student isn’t cheap.
From endless textbooks to overpriced coffees and skyrocketing rent, your bank account can start crying pretty quickly. That’s where this payment comes in. It’s designed to:
- Reduce financial stress during the semester
- Help students focus on studies rather than work overtime
- Support those from low-income backgrounds
Who Can Actually Get This Payment?
Alright, here’s the golden question—who’s eligible?
Centrelink doesn’t just hand this out to anyone. You must meet certain criteria:
You Must Be A Student
You need to be enrolled in full-time study at a recognized institution. TAFE, uni, or other accredited providers all count.
Be Receiving A Centrelink Benefit
This payment is usually linked to:
- Youth Allowance (for students aged 16–24)
- Austudy (for students 25 and older)
- Abstudy (for Indigenous students)
If you’re already getting any of these payments, you’re halfway there.
Income And Assets Test
Centrelink will look at how much you and your parents/guardians earn. The payment targets those in financial need, so if your family’s income is too high, you might miss out.
How Much Can You Actually Get?
So, what’s this mysterious $2,140 figure?
That’s the maximum lump-sum amount that eligible students may receive under certain Centrelink schemes. It could be linked to:
- Relocation Scholarship for students who move away from home
- Start-up Loan for course-related expenses
- Living Away from Home Allowance
You won’t always get the full $2,140—it depends on your individual circumstances.
Different Types Of Student Payments
Centrelink offers a range of payments, and the $2,140 might be a part of one of these:
Youth Allowance
For full-time students aged 16 to 24. If you live independently or have moved for study, you may qualify for extra support.
Austudy
If you’re 25 or older and studying full-time, this one’s for you. Same deal—add-on lump sums may apply.
Abstudy
For Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander students, Abstudy includes living allowances, rent assistance, and lump-sum bonuses like the Relocation Scholarship.
The Start-Up Loan: What Is It?
One of the ways you might get the $2,140 is through the Student Start-Up Loan. It’s not free money—it’s a loan, but interest-free until you start earning over the repayment threshold.
- You can get around $1,200 per semester
- Paid in two instalments per year
- Repayment is via the HELP debt system
It’s like borrowing from your future self—only when you’re actually earning enough.
What Is The Relocation Scholarship?
If you’ve had to move from a regional area to attend uni or TAFE, this is for you.
- Worth up to $5,000 over three years
- First-year students can get around $4,000 in the first year
- It helps with moving costs, rent, and setup expenses
Sometimes, this is where the $2,140 portion can come into play—depending on your study year and circumstances.
How Do You Apply For The Payment?
You don’t need to apply for the $2,140 separately. Here’s how it works:
- Apply for Youth Allowance, Austudy, or Abstudy on the Services Australia website.
- During your application, indicate your study and living situation clearly.
- If eligible, Centrelink will automatically assess your entitlement to extra payments like Start-up Loans or Relocation Scholarships.
Simple, right?
Common Reasons Students Miss Out
You might think you’re eligible, but still miss out. Why?
Incorrect Info
Even a small error—like the wrong address or missing documents—can cause rejection.
Income Too High
If your part-time job or your parents’ income is above the limit, it affects your claim.
Missed Deadlines
Centrelink is strict with deadlines. Don’t delay or you could lose out.
When Is The Payment Paid?
If you qualify for the Start-up Loan or Relocation Scholarship, the payment generally arrives:
- Start-up Loan: Around February and July
- Relocation Scholarship: Usually early in the academic year, typically after your first Youth Allowance payment
You’ll see it land in your nominated bank account like a mini jackpot.
What Can You Use The Money For?
Here’s the fun part—once it hits your account, it’s yours to use. While there are no strict rules, Centrelink expects you to spend it on:
- Textbooks and supplies
- Transport costs
- Rent or bond
- Setting up your room or study space
- Even food and utilities
Think of it as giving you a head start at the beginning of your study journey.
Tips To Maximize Your Chances
Want to make sure you’re in the best position to get the payment?
- Apply early—don’t wait until uni starts
- Double-check your documents—accuracy matters
- Track deadlines with reminders
- Be honest about your income and living situation
- Ask for help—Centrelink has hotlines and chat options
Can You Get This Payment Every Year?
Yes—sort of.
- Start-up Loans: You can get it twice a year, every year you study.
- Relocation Scholarships: You get $4,788 in year 1, then smaller amounts in year 2 and 3 if eligible.
- Living Allowances: Paid throughout the study period
So if you’re a multi-year student, this payment could show up more than once!
Is It Worth It?
Absolutely. Even if it’s a loan (like the Start-up Loan), it gives you breathing space when the semester kicks off. You can:
- Stress less about bills
- Reduce work hours
- Focus more on assignments and exams
Think of it as financial padding while you build your future.
Conclusion
Juggling study and bills in Australia isn’t easy—but knowing what support is available can be a game-changer. The $2,140 Centrelink Student Payment (whether through the Start-up Loan, Relocation Scholarship, or other perks) can take a massive weight off your shoulders.
If you’re eligible, don’t wait. Apply, prepare your documents, and get your payment sorted before the semester hits full swing. After all, the last thing you want to stress about during exam season is your bank balance, right?
FAQs
1. What is the $2,140 Centrelink Student Payment?
It’s a lump-sum financial support offered to eligible students in Australia through programs like the Start-up Loan or Relocation Scholarship. It helps cover living or study-related costs.
2. Can I apply for the $2,140 payment separately?
No, this payment is assessed as part of your application for Youth Allowance, Austudy, or Abstudy. If you qualify, Centrelink will automatically offer it.
3. Do I have to repay the payment?
If it’s a Start-up Loan, yes—you’ll repay it through the HELP system once your income hits the repayment threshold. Relocation Scholarships, however, do not need to be repaid.
4. How often can I get this payment?
You may receive it every semester if it’s the Start-up Loan, or annually for things like the Relocation Scholarship—depending on your eligibility and continued study.
5. What should I do if my application is rejected?
Check your details, income levels, and supporting documents. You can appeal Centrelink decisions or speak to a Financial Counsellor or Student Support Officer for help.