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NEIS FAQ's

Who is eligible?

Any person who is:

Registered with Centrelink
In receipt of a qualifying benefit from DSS
Not an undischarged bankrupt

 

 


What is a qualifying benefit?
Newstart, Youth Allowance, Single Parent Benefit, Disabsability Support Pension [check with Centrelink for other possible benefits]

How long do I need to be registered for?
1 day or more

How long do I need to be receiving a DSS benefit for before I am eligible?
1 day or more

How old do I have to be before I can apply for NEIS?
18 years old and under 65 years.

What financial assistance does NEIS offer?
NEIS participants are paid NEIS allowance each fortnight for up to 52 weeks, at the adult Newstart rate.

If I am receiving the Single Parent payment or Disability Support pension can I choose to stay on that benefit?
Yes, although this needs to be discussed with the NEIS Managing Agent

Will NEIS help me buy an existing business?
No. To be eligible for NEIS the business must :

not involve the purchase or takeover of an existing business
never have operated on a commercial basis
not compete directly with existing businesses unless it can demonstrated that there is an unsatisfied demand for the product or service, or the goods or service are to be provided in a new way.
be independent, reputable and legal


 

 

 

How much money will I receive on Income Support?
The same amount as the current fortnightly Newstart Allowance.

Will my Rent Assistance continue under Income Support?
Yes, for the first 6 months, at the same rate.

My spouse/partner is receiving parenting allowance. Are they eligible for NEIS?
Yes. They must register with Centrelink and have their own Jobseeker ID. It is acceptable to register just to apply for the NEIS program. This is usually done once it is confirmed that you have been accepted onto the program.

Why would my spouse/partner choose to go onto NEIS rather than stay on their current benefit?
You are able to earn unlimited amount of money in your business without your Income Support being affected.

If I already have a part time job can I keep it?
You are expected to work full time in your NEIS business, which is considered to be 35 hours or more. Any money earned outside of the business is assessed against your Income Support. You are able to earn twice the amount of Income Support per week, averaged out over a quarterly period, before your Income Support is affected.

Does NEIS provide start-up funding for my business?
No, you need to source initial capital elsewhere.

It is possible that your Job Network Member (JNM) may be able to provide assistance with some initial costs through use of your Job seeker account.Contact your JNM to see if you are eligible.

 
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