Change of circumstances

You need to tell us if your circumstances change when you are receiving Newstart Allowance. For example, you need to tell us if:

• you find work
• you start studying or training
• you move house
• you separate from your partner or become a member of a couple
• your income changes.

You need to let us know about any changes within 14 days in case this affects your Newstart Allowance.

• If you don't tell us about changes you may be overpaid, and you will probably have to pay the money back.
• If you deliberately do not tell us about changes, you could be charged with fraud.
• You may have to pay a recovery fee if incorrect information has been given to us about your employment income.

If you are sick

You can continue getting Newstart Allowance if you get sick or have an accident and are temporarily unable to work. You will not have to meet the activity test or hand in your fortnightly application form in person while you are unfit for work.

You need to get a medical certificate from your doctor that states you are unfit to do at least 8 hours work a week.

More information

• Disability Support Pension section
• Participation and activity test requirements
• Pharmaceutical Allowance section
• What you need to tell us
• Newstart Allowance section