ALSA

19/03/2010. The Australian Law Students’ Association (ALSA) welcomes the independent Youth Allowance exemption for outer rural students, but remains sceptical about the scheme.

President of ALSA, Jonathan Augustus, stated "It is fantastic that the government has recognised the unique position of regional, rural and remote students. In the legal sphere these areas suffer from a lack of incentives to obtain and retain employment, so it’s nice to see them field a win for a change".

ALSA still believes that the strict criterion to obtain the independent youth allowance undermines the aura of support for students that the government broadcasts. The changes require those whose parents’ combined income is above $44,165 to work full time for 30 hours a week for at least 18 months to qualify for youth allowance. While the $44,165 threshold is an increase (from the previous $33,300),it is only slightly higher than the minimum wage and this criterion creates a huge black hole for many low to middle income homes. It is a change in the right direction, but it doesn’t go far enough. These changes promote many students taking 18-24 months off to work full-time, so that when/if they do go to university, they can be eligible for the ‘independent’ government grant.

Jonathan Augustus added, " Students often take a gap year and then never begin their studies due to lost interest or the need to earn an income much higher than they could possibly attain whilst studying. The new criteria change for Youth Allowance is simply extending that possibility".

The government should increase support for all students who endeavour to further their studies, not create unnecessary rigid obstacles. While ALSA understands the need for regulation of the scheme, it does not believe that these changes promote higher learning or access to higher education.

Media Contact
Jonathan Augustus
President
Australian Law Students’ Association
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