Full time work

You may be independent for Youth Allowance if you worked full time. You must have worked an average of 30 hours a week for at least 18 months within any 2 year period.

You don’t need to work for 18 months in a row, or in the same job. Full time work is an average of 30 hours a week.

You may not work 30 hours every week. If this is the case, you can average your work hours over a period of up to 13 weeks.

Full time paid work includes:

  • periods of paid leave
  • overseas work
  • unpaid leave due to employer shutdown outside of your control
  • full time apprenticeships and traineeships
  • periods of getting workers compensation where you can demonstrate you’re connected to your employment.

See if you’re considered independent using the check independence through work history tool.

Page last updated: 25 September 2022.
QC 55742