Many Australian students move far from home to attend the best universities. This can be exciting but also expensive—especially when it comes to travel costs.
That’s why Centrelink’s Fares Allowance is so helpful. It gives money back for students who need to travel long distances for their education.
Let’s explore how this program works, who can get it, and how it has helped students like Lea Šimic stay close to their families while studying far from home.
Why Students Move Far for Education
Many young Australians leave their homes to study in other parts of the country. Some travel across states just to attend top universities or colleges that offer the courses they want.
One such student is Lea Šimic, a 20-year-old who moved from Melbourne to Perth to study at the Western Australian Academy of Performing Arts (WAAPA). This famous school has trained big names like Hugh Jackman and Frances O’Connor.
Choosing the Right Course Was Important
Lea chose WAAPA because she was interested in the directing part of their arts program. She said, “I was very interested in that.” After three years, she found many new opportunities in the arts industry. But the biggest problem was how far she was from her family.
How She Found Help Through Centrelink
Lea learned about Centrelink’s Fares Allowance from a university friend. Her friend was also trying to get reimbursement for flights to visit home. Lea said, “We were just looking for ways to go see our family while studying here in WA.”
She found out that Centrelink helps students who get:
- Youth Allowance
- Austudy
- Pensioner Education Supplement
What is Centrelink’s Fares Allowance?
The Fares Allowance is a program that pays students back for travel expenses if they study away from home.
How It Works:
Students who receive Centrelink payments for at least 3 months in a year can get up to 4 flights reimbursed each year:
- One flight to university at the start of the year
- One flight home at the end of the year
- One mid-year trip home and back
If a student is on Centrelink for less than 3 months, they can get 2 flights covered per year.
Here is a clear table that explains how much travel students can claim:
| Payment Duration | Number of Flights Covered | Type of Trips Covered |
|---|---|---|
| At least 3 months/year | 4 | Start of year, end of year, mid-year round trip |
| Less than 3 months/year | 2 | Start of year and end of year or one round trip |
| Distance/Online Learners | 1 return trip/year | To attend course requirement (plus baggage refund) |
Lea’s Personal Experience
Lea used the program to claim a $600 flight from Sydney to Perth. She advised other students to book early, as last-minute fares can go over $1,000 for one-way trips.
She believes the program is very useful:
“To have the option to see your family… it’s really beneficial.”
Support for Online and Distance Students
Students who study online or from a distance can also claim one return trip every year. This helps them travel when they need to meet in-person course requirements. Centrelink also refunds the cost of standard luggage.
Public and Private Transport Included
Students don’t have to take only flights. The program also covers:
- Trains
- Buses
- Coaches
- Ferries
If public transport is not practical, students may use private transport, but they must explain why public options were not possible.
How This Helps Students Financially
Many students spend most of their money on:
- Rent
- Food
- Books
They also work part-time jobs to support themselves. This Fares Allowance helps them:
- Save money on travel
- Visit family without extra stress
- Stay focused on their studies
Family Support Keeps Students Motivated
Lea said she felt lucky to get into WAAPA at just 18 years old, as most people need another degree first.
Being able to visit her family kept her motivated:
“They’re part of the reason why I want to create a very specific kind of art.”
She believes the Fares Allowance helped her stay connected, happy, and creative.
Centrelink’s Fares Allowance is a great way to help students who have to move away from home to study. It reduces travel costs, helps students stay close to their families, and lets them focus more on their education.
Students like Lea show how this program can really make a difference in someone’s journey. If you’re a student living away from home, check if you’re eligible—this benefit could ease your travel worries and keep you closer to your loved ones.
FAQs
Who can get the Centrelink Fares Allowance?
Students receiving Youth Allowance, Austudy, or Pensioner Education Supplement may qualify if they study far from home.
How many trips can I claim each year?
Up to 4 trips per year if you receive Centrelink for at least 3 months. Only 2 trips if you get payments for less time.
Can I use buses or trains instead of flights?
Yes! The allowance covers the cheapest and most available transport, including buses, trains, and ferries.