The Federal Allowances for Rural and Remote Students is an all-in-one document containing financial assistance information for students in distance education, boarding, tertiary and training.
LAFHA Update Payment Rates from 1 July 2026
The Australian Government has increased Living Away From Home Allowance (LAFHA) payment rates in line with the Consumer Price Index (CPI). Eligible apprentices can now receive:
- $125.52 per week during the first 12 months of their apprenticeship
- $94.14 per week during the second 12 months
- $47.07 per week during the third 12 months
Who may be eligible?
To qualify for LAFHA, an apprentice must generally:
- Be undertaking an eligible Australian Apprenticeship.
- Need to live away from their parent or guardian's home to take up or continue their apprenticeship.
- Meet the eligibility requirements under the Australian Apprenticeships Incentive System.
The allowance is available to support apprentices across Australia, including those living in rural and remote communities who may have limited local training or employment opportunities.
How to apply
Applications are made through an Australian Apprenticeship Support Network (AASN) provider. Apprentices should contact their provider to discuss their eligibility and complete the application process.
For further information about eligibility, payment conditions and the Australian Apprenticeships Incentive System, refer to the Australian Government's Living Away From Home Allowance (LAFHA) Factsheet.
Federal Training Financial Assistance
As an Australian Apprentice or VET student you may be eligible for government assistance to help with the costs of undertaking your chosen pathway, including Youth Allowance and the commonwealth Living Away from Home Allowance (LAFHA).
For more information on Youth Allowance visit: Services Australia
A Youth Allowance Overview – This helpful Information document has also been prepared by ICPA Aust to help members navigate the Youth Allowance website. CLICK HERE
For information on LAFHA and Trade Support Loans visit Australian Apprenticeships
Study Assist
Information for students about government assistance for financing study including links to study options, subsidised fees and government loans (HELP and VET Student Loans), loan repayments, scholarships and additional student income support options.
