Canberra (Press Release): As universities across the country begin to buzz with O-Week activities students are being 
encouraged to stay in touch and up to date with their student assistance payments using the Express Plus Students app.
Minister for Human Services Senator the Hon Marise Payne said students will find it easier than ever to keep up to date with their Youth Allowance, Austudy or ABSTUDY payments without having to visit a Centrelink office.
“It’s an exciting time, especially for students who have moved away from home,” Minister Payne said.
“Most students have a smart phone and use it for all their needs. The Express Plus Students app means students can check what their next payment will be, report their income from casual or part-time work, and update their study details.
“This is especially important because if a student’s circumstances change – such as an increase in employment hours or a decrease in their study load – it can result in a debt if they do not report it.”
Minister Payne said for many students, starting university means moving out of home and being in control of their finances for the first time, which can be very challenging.
“There is a range of assistance available for students through income support payments and additional support they may be eligible for, like Rent Assistance, Fares Allowance, the Student Start-up Scholarship and Relocation Scholarships,” Minister Payne said.
“Regional students who move from their parental home to the city may also be eligible for a higher rate of payment.”
Latrobe University student Jami Giles, from Hamilton in Victoria, is about to begin her second year studying Health Science and Speech Pathology.
“I’ve found the app super easy to use to report earnings while working over the summer and if I can continue to pick up part-time work at uni I’ll definitely continue reporting using the app,” Jami said.
“Another thing I really found handy was the notifications that come through to remind you to report earnings. It’s great not to have to be at home and log-in at a computer – it only takes a minute and you can do it wherever you are.”
