Transitional arrangements for the Parental Assistance Test
Some young people are not required to meet the Parental Assistance Test until their first or second 26 week reapplication after 2 November 2026. This applies to a young person who:
- was getting Jobseeker Support before 2 November 2026 and is still getting it on 2 November 2026 or
- is applying for Jobseeker Support on or after 2 November 2026 and has an application date or entitlement date before 2 November 2026
Note if a young person was getting Jobseeker Support and their notice to reapply was sent before 2 November 2026, the Parental Assistance Test does not apply until their second reapplication after 2 November 2026.
Including a partner in Jobseeker Support
If a young person is to be included in Jobseeker Support on or after 2 November 2026, they must meet the Parental Assistance Test. This applies even if the primary is not required to meet the Parental Assistance Test until their next reapplication.
Note if the partner met the Parental Assistance Test in the last 26 weeks, they do not need to meet it again to be included.
Change in circumstances
If a young person getting Jobseeker Support has a change in circumstances that means the Parental Assistance Test would apply to them for the first time, it does not apply straight away. The young person is not required to meet the Parental Assistance Test until their next reapplication after 2 November 2026.
For more information see:
Legislation
- Provisions relating to Part 1 of Social Security (Jobseeker Support and Accommodation Supplement) Amendment Act 2026, part 16, schedule 1 Social Security Act 2018
