You are here:

• Home > 
• Payments > 
• Who can get Widow Allowance?

Who can get Widow Allowance?

You may get Widow Allowance if you are a woman who:

• was born on or before 1 July 1955 and is not a member of a couple
• has become widowed, divorced or separated (including separated de facto) since turning 40
• has no recent workforce experience - that is you haven't worked at least 20 hours a week for 13 weeks or more in the last year
• is an Australian resident, in Australia and not subject to the two year newly arrived residents waiting period
• satisfies one of the qualifying residence rules for Widow Allowance, and
• has income and assets below a certain amount.

If you claim Widow Allowance on or after 20 September 2003, you will be required to attend an interview with a Customer Service Adviser at least once every 12 months. At this interview, the Customer Service Advisor can help you develop a plan for getting a job or becoming more involved in your community.

If you were getting Widow Allowance before this date, you can ask to see a Customer Service Adviser if you wish.

Please note: You can not claim Widow Allowance from 1 July 2005, unless you were born on or before 1 July 1955.

For more information, go to Factors that Affect Payments and Eligibility.