It can be shocking when you’ve been living and working in a country for years, hit a rough patch and only then find out that you’re not technically entitled to Newstart. Forget the rent – how are you supposed to buy food?

Here’s a list of information and resources for those non-citizens, non-permanent residents and non-special visa holders who can’t access the Newstart safety net:

1: You may be eligible for “Special Benefits”.  This is a temporary, 6-month payment from the Australian government for people who are otherwise ineligible for any other payment. It’s for approximately $500pf (depending on your age, relationship and dependant status) and should never be relied upon to survive while you’re looking for work – especially in a time of high unemployment.

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