BenefitsMate

How Much Austudy If I Earn $1,600 Per Fortnight?

Earning $1,600 per fortnight? See exactly how much Austudy you'll receive after the income test, plus rent assistance and other supplements. Based on March 2026 rates for a single person.

Last verified: 16 March 2026
NO

Income too high — Austudy is $0

The cut-off for Austudy is approximately $1,201.67/fortnight. Your income of $1,600/fn exceeds this limit.

Payment Breakdown

Base Austudy rate$620.40
Income test reduction- $620.40
Your fortnightly payment$0.00

Your Income in Context

Weekly

$800.00

Fortnightly

$1,600.00

Annual

$41,600

How the Income Test Works

You: $1,600
$0Free area: $150.00Cut-off: ~$1,201.67

Earn up to $150.00/fn with no reduction (income free area)

Between $150.00 and $256.00: payment reduces by 50c per dollar

Above $256.00: payment reduces by 60c per dollar

Total Fortnightly Income

Your wages$1,600.00
Austudy + supplements$0.00
Total fortnightly income$1,600.00

That's approximately $800.00/week or $41,600/year

Taper Effect: $50 Less vs $50 More

Earn $1,550/fn

$0.00

Earn $1,600/fn

$0.00

Earn $1,650/fn

$0.00

Earning $50 more reduces your payment by $0.00, so your net gain is $50.00.

Tips for Austudy Recipients

  • You can earn up to $150.00/fortnight before your payment starts reducing.
  • Your payment cuts off entirely at approximately $1,201.67/fortnight.
  • Always report your income to Centrelink within 14 days to avoid overpayments and debts.
  • Working Wage Credits may let you accumulate credits during low-income periods to offset future income.
  • Even if you lose your payment, you may be eligible for a Low Income Health Care Card if your income is below the threshold.

General information and estimates only — not financial, tax, or legal advice. Always verify with Services Australia.