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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 Community Work Coordinators and delivered through community or government organisations or agencies such as local government and community groups. Community Work Coordinators refer and support job seekers in their Work for Dole activities.

Job seekers may be required to take part in Work for the Dole if they are:

  • aged 18 or 19 years, recently completed Year 12, getting the full rate of Youth Allowance, and have been getting payments for three months or more, or
  • aged 18 - 49 years, getting the full rate of Youth Allowance or Newstart Allowance, and have been getting payments for six months or more.
  • receiving Parenting Payment with participation requirements, getting the full rate and it has been six months since you first signed a compulsory Activity Agreement with Centrelink.

Additionally, job seekers aged 18 and over who get the full (or part) rate of Youth Allowance or Newstart Allowance can volunteer to participate in a Work for the Dole activity.

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 your Job Network member may refer you to Full Time Work for the Dole.

More information

For more information, phone Centrelink on 13 2850 or visit your nearest Centrelink Customer Service Centre.

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