Timeframe to assign and complete the Jobseeker Profile

A client has 20 working days from their date of first contact to complete their Jobseeker Profile. This must happen before their benefit can be granted.

Clients who do not complete their Jobseeker Profile within 20 working days will have their application lapse.

Clients who have a good and sufficient reason for being unable to complete their Jobseeker Profile within 20 working days may be given more time.

This can happen before or after the 20 working day timeframe lapses, depending on when the reason occurs and when the client notifies MSD.

Example

Nicole applied for a benefit on 24 June 2025 and had until 21 July to complete her application. She was told that she needed to complete a Jobseeker Profile before her benefit can be granted. She was scheduled to attend an appointment on 3 July but she didn't make it.

Nicole contacts MSD on 17 July to advise that she has been in hospital for the past three weeks and has not been able to provide everything she needs for her application, including completing her Jobseeker Profile. The next available appointment is 23 July, which is more than 20 working days after she made her application.

When she attends her appointment, she provides all her documents, including her completed Jobseeker Profile. MSD is satisfied there was a good reason why Nicole was not able to complete this within the 20-working day window and grants an extension so her application is not lapsed. Her application date remains 24 June.