Work for the Dole

Work for the Dole is about helping job seekers improve their employment prospects by providing opportunities for work experience. Communities are involving job seekers in local projects providing facilities and services of value to the community.

Work for the Dole placements cover a wide range of activities, such as heritage and/or history, the environment, community care, tourism, sport, providing community services and restoring and maintaining community services and facilities.

Work for the Dole services are managed by Job Services Australia and delivered through community or government organisations or agencies such as local government and community groups. Job Services Australia refer and support job seekers in their Work for the Dole activities.

All Fully Eligible job seekers are able to take part in Work for the Dole, including persons aged 15 to 20 years not on income support and not in full-time education or training.

Job seekers on income support, with Activity Test or participation requirements, may choose to take part in Work for the Dole to meet their Work Experience Phase requirements with their Job Services Australia provider. Work Experience Phase requirements generally commence after the job seeker has been getting payments for 12 months or more.

All Work for the Dole participants get an extra $20.80 per fortnight. Protective clothing is provided by the project sponsor if it is needed. Essential training, such as occupational health and safety training, is also provided.

If you are a longterm job seeker Job Services Australia may refer you to Full Time Work for the Dole.

More information

• Telephone Centrelink on 13 2850.
• Visit your nearest Centrelink Customer Service Centre.