Australia PR benefits review: many types of benefits, waiting periods vary

Australia is one of the countries with the most complete welfare system in the world, with many welfare protection measures to provide all-round protection for its citizens. For those who obtain Australian permanent resident (PR) status, they can enjoy more welfare benefits.

Australian PR benefits – Family Tax Benefit

Family Tax Benefit (FTB) is a financial subsidy provided by the Australian government to families, mainly to reduce the burden of raising children in low-income families. FTB is divided into Part A and Part B. Part A is for all families, and Part B is for families where one party does not have a fixed income.

The specific amount of FTB depends on factors such as family income and children's age. For example, a family with two children can receive about $455 Australian dollars in FTB Part A and about $335 Australian dollars in FTB Part B every two weeks if the family income is not high.

Australian Resident Benefits – Newborn subsidy

The Baby Bonus is a financial subsidy provided by the Australian government to families with newborns. Each newborn can receive approximately 1,785 Australian dollars.

Australian Resident Benefits – Educational benefits

Australia implements 12 years of compulsory education, and parents only need to bear the cost of books and other miscellaneous expenses. For families with heavy financial pressure, school-age children can receive 85% tuition subsidy.

In addition, Australian university education also provides a variety of loan methods. The tuition fees are lower than those for international students, and the loans are repaid after graduation and getting a job.

Australian Resident Benefits – Unemployment Benefits

Jobseeker Payment is a financial subsidy provided by the Australian government to the unemployed. Starting from September 20, 2023, the following is the maximum unemployment benefit that can be received every two weeks:

• Single without children: $668.40 Australian dollars
• Single and over 60 years old: $718.60 Australian dollars
• With partner: $608.70 Australian dollars
• Single but exempted from obligation: $915.40 Australian dollars

Australian Resident Benefits – Pension benefits

Age Pension is a financial subsidy provided by the Australian government to eligible elderly people. Single elderly people can receive about $936.80 Australian dollars every two weeks, and couples can receive about $1412.40 Australian dollars every two weeks.

Australian Resident Benefits – Housing benefits

Housing Assistance includes Rental Assistance, First Home Owners Grant and Stamp Duty Concessions.

The amount of rent subsidy is related to the total income and rent of the family. The first home purchase subsidy varies from state to state, and usually different amounts of subsidies are given according to different house prices. When buying a property, stamp duty can also be reduced.

Australian Resident Benefits – Waiting period

It should be noted that there is a waiting period for Australian PR to receive benefits. Currently, most benefits require a four-year waiting period after applying for PR, except for the following:

• Two-year waiting period: Dad and partner benefits, paid parental leave, carer benefits
• One-year waiting period: Carer's Allowance, Family Tax Benefit Part A

If a major change occurs during the waiting period, such as unemployment, illness, death of a family member, etc., you can apply for a waiver of the waiting period.

In general, Australia's PR benefits are diverse and cover a wide range of areas, which can provide PR families with multiple protections. For those who apply for Australian PR, they can learn about the relevant welfare policies in advance and apply for them if they meet the conditions, so as to reduce the financial burden and improve the quality of life.

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