Voluntary Work
A Jobseeker Support Student Hardship client or their partner may elect to participate in voluntary work to obtain work experience.
This is an acceptable activity however it should not take precedence over the primary client's availability for paid work.
When clients in receipt of a work obligated benefit engage in one of these activities it is essential that they continue to meet their job search requirements and obligations.
It is not sufficient to only be available for work. There is also the requirement to be actively seeking work.
Clients can undertake voluntary work while continuing to meet the job search requirements and obligations of Jobseeker Support Student Hardship. Each case has to be considered on its merits, but if the part-time 'non' job search activity reaches in excess of 12 to 15 hours per week, there should be careful scrutiny of the person's benefit eligibility.
A client's part-time voluntary work must allow enough time for them to actively seek work as required by their job search requirements.
For more information see:
