Did you know that some Australian students can get free flights just by using a little-known Centrelink benefit? Many students who move away from home for university miss their families and struggle with the high cost of travel.
But thanks to a special program called the Fares Allowance, eligible students can get reimbursed for airfares, train rides, and even luggage costs!
This article will explain how the Centrelink Fares Allowance works, who can apply, how much you can save, and how one smart student is using it to stay connected with her family. If you’re studying far from home and getting Centrelink support, this could be the help you need!
What is the Centrelink Fares Allowance?
The Centrelink Fares Allowance is a travel subsidy given by Services Australia. It helps eligible students who need to travel between their home and their place of study.
This allowance is not a loan. Instead, it’s a reimbursement—you pay for the trip first, then claim the money back later.
Who Can Get This Allowance?
You can use this allowance if you’re getting one of these Centrelink payments:
- Youth Allowance
- Austudy
- Pensioner Education Supplement
To get the full travel benefit, you must be receiving any of these payments for more than three months a year. If you get the payment for less than three months, you’ll get fewer trips covered.
How Many Flights Can You Claim?
Here’s how many trips you can get covered based on your eligibility:
| Centrelink Payment Duration | Flights Covered Per Year |
|---|---|
| More than 3 months | 4 flights (2 round trips) |
| Less than 3 months | 2 flights (1 round trip) |
This means you can fly to your university at the start of the year, fly home at the end, and make one round trip during your studies!
What Travel Costs Are Covered?
The Fares Allowance can reimburse:
- Airfare tickets (lowest fare available)
- Standard luggage costs
- Public transport (bus or train) to and from the airport or university
It also covers long-distance train rides, like a trip from Sydney to Bathurst.
So, it’s not just flights—you can save on the entire journey!
How It Helped One Student
Lea Šimić, a 20-year-old student from Sydney, moved to Perth to study at the Western Australian Academy of Performing Arts (WAAPA).
Flights between Sydney and Perth can cost more than $1,000 one-way, but thanks to the Centrelink Fares Allowance, she claimed back over $600 for her travel.
She receives Youth Allowance, so she qualifies for 4 flights a year.
She said being able to travel home helped her stay connected with her family and reminded her why she chose to study arts. “Centrelink has definitely helped me out in that regard,” she said.
Why This Support Matters
Studying away from home can be lonely and expensive. Not all students can afford to fly home, especially with rising airfare prices.
This Centrelink hack helps students stay connected to their loved ones, even if they study across the country.
Plus, it reduces financial stress, so students can focus on their education instead of worrying about travel.
How to Apply for Fares Allowance
Here’s a simple guide to getting started:
- Check your Centrelink eligibility (Youth Allowance, Austudy, or PES)
- Keep all travel receipts, including flight and public transport tickets
- Log in to myGov and go to your Centrelink account
- Submit a claim for Fares Allowance
- Wait for approval and reimbursement
Make sure your trip is for study purposes, not for a holiday. Centrelink may ask for proof of enrolment and academic calendar.
Real Example of How Much You Can Save
Let’s break it down:
| Item | Average Cost | Covered by Allowance? |
|---|---|---|
| Flight (Sydney to Perth) | $600–$1,000 | ✅ Yes |
| Luggage Fee (20kg bag) | $40–$70 | ✅ Yes |
| Train to Airport (e.g., Sydney) | $20–$30 | ✅ Yes |
| Total Savings Per Trip | Up to $1,100 | ✅ |
Multiply this by 4 trips per year, and you could save over $4,000 annually!
Why Students Should Use This Hack
Not everyone knows about this allowance—even some Centrelink workers forget to mention it!
If you’re eligible, take advantage of it. Whether you travel by plane, train, or bus, you shouldn’t have to pay full price if help is available.
It’s perfect for students moving interstate, especially those going to high-ranking schools like WAAPA or University of Queensland, far from their hometown.
The Centrelink Fares Allowance is a powerful but underused benefit that helps students save thousands of dollars on travel every year. Whether you’re flying across Australia or just taking a long-distance train, this allowance ensures you don’t miss out on seeing your family just because of money problems.
If you’re a student receiving Youth Allowance, Austudy, or Pensioner Education Supplement, make sure you use this travel support. It’s more than just a ride—it’s a lifeline to home.
FAQs
Can I use the Centrelink Fares Allowance for any flight?
No, the allowance only covers the cheapest available flights for study-related travel. You must keep your receipts to claim it.
How do I prove my travel was for study?
Centrelink may ask for your university timetable, enrolment proof, or academic calendar to confirm the purpose of your trip.
Is the Fares Allowance paid upfront?
No. You must pay first, then submit a claim for reimbursement through your Centrelink account on myGov.