Commonwealth Prac Payment

If you need to complete a practical placement as part of your teaching, nursing, midwifery or social work course, you could be eligible for this new weekly support payment.

What is the Commonwealth Prac Payment?

This information is here to guide you, but it may change over time. We recommend checking with your university for the most up-to-date details.

The Commonwealth Prac Payment is a weekly payment of $338.60 that is offered to eligible teaching, nursing, midwifery or social work students.

It’s designed to help ease your living costs when you’re completing a full-time placement, so you can concentrate on building the skills and experience you’ll need for your future career.

If you’re studying a bachelor or masters degree in one of these areas through Open Universities Australia, and you need to complete a mandatory placement, you may be eligible.

You’ll apply for this payment directly through your university. But don’t worry. We’ll guide you through what’s involved so you can feel confident about the process.

Student studying at his regional property
Max is studying teaching, one of the fields where practical placements are part of the learning experience.

Who is eligible?

To apply for the payment, you’ll need to be:

  • a domestic student enrolled in a Commonwealth supported place
  • enrolled in a bachelor degree or masters degree that leads to professional accreditation in teaching, nursing, midwifery or social work
  • completing a mandatory full-time placement that is at least 30 hours a week.

You should also meet one of these income tests. Either:

  • You already receive a Centrelink payment (for example Austudy, Youth Allowance, ABSTUDY or the Disability Support Pension); or
  • You meet the government’s ‘Need to Work’ test. This means you normally need to work more than 15 hours a week to support yourself, and you earned no more than $1,500 per week (before tax) in the 4 weeks before your placement.

Exceptional circumstances

Even if you don’t meet the above income tests, you can apply if you live with a disability, illness or face caring responsibilities that prevent you from working. You can contact your university directly to ask more about this.

Quick facts

Who can apply?

Eligible students completing a full-time placement as part of their bachelor or masters degree.

When are applications open?

Now. The Commonwealth Prac Payment became available for placements starting after 1 July 2025.

How much is the payment?

You can receive up to $338.60 per week during your placement.

Which courses are covered?

The below degrees available through Open Universities Australia offer placements that are covered by this payment.

Teaching courses

Australian Catholic University

Confidence, skills and experience to teach prep to Year 12

Positively influence the lives of young people. You’ll develop as a teacher and a person. Explore curriculum, planning, and pedagogy. Learn to engage your learners and be inclusive. Includes supervised work placements to practice teaching in schools.

Study method
Online & on-campus
Duration
4 years full time or part time equivalent
Australian Catholic University

Bring your love of learning to the classroom

Focus on creating a great environment to support childhood learning. Become a passionate advocate for the rights of children. Explore the ways that you can help children to build knowledge, skills and positive attitudes.

Study method
Online & on-campus
Duration
2 years full time or part time equivalent
Curtin University

Comprehensive pre-service teaching preparation

Enter the valued profession of early childhood teaching and child care. Study core subjects, professional studies and electives to be qualified to teach children aged 0-8 years in early learning centres and in junior school settings.

Study method
Online & on-campus
Duration
4 years full time or part time equivalent
Entry requirements
No ATAR required. Start with a subject.
Curtin University

A student centred approach to teaching and learning

Explore teaching strategies and integrate theory with practice. Study lesson planning, classroom management, special education and digital literacy. Gain practical experience through block teaching plus a whole term internship

Study method
Online & on-campus
Duration
4 years full time or part time equivalent
Entry requirements
No ATAR required. Start with a subject.
Curtin University

Lead your class in a love of literature

Boasting a new course structure, this degree promises to hone your skills as a literacy leader. Gain the skills needed to teach English in Years 7-12 with new subjects and a chance to take on professional experience subjects throughout your degree.  

Study method
Online & on-campus
Duration
4 years full time or part time equivalent
Entry requirements
No ATAR required. Start with a subject.
Curtin University

Ground your students’ love of geography

Boasting a new course structure, this degree promises to hone your skills as a geography teacher. Gain the skills needed to teach Geography in Years 7-12 with new subjects and a chance to take on professional experience subjects throughout. 

Study method
Online & on-campus
Duration
4 years full time or part time equivalent
Entry requirements
No ATAR required. Start with a subject.
Curtin University

Encourage a passion for performing in learners

Boasting a new course structure, this degree promises to hone your skills as a visual arts teacher. Gain the skills needed to teach The Arts in Years 7-12 with new subjects and a chance to take on professional experience subjects throughout.

Study method
Online & on-campus
Duration
4 years full time or part time equivalent
Entry requirements
No ATAR required. Start with a subject.
Curtin University

Master the art of teaching children

Master advanced critical skills for teaching the needs of 21st century learners. Consider culture and diversity and draw on theory and research. Learn to lead and practice professionally in schools. Manage early childhood education and care centres.

Study method
Online & on-campus
Duration
2 years full time or part time equivalent
Curtin University

Master of Teaching (Primary Education)

PostgraduateCUR-PRI-MAS

Uncover your teaching talent with an in-demand qualification

Develop advanced critical skills, knowledge and understanding concerning best practice in primary education to meet the needs of today's learners. As a graduate you will be well-placed to enter leadership pathways in your teaching career.

Study method
Online & on-campus
Duration
2 years full time or part time equivalent
Curtin University

An Initial Teacher Education qualification in order to register as a teacher in Australia

Develop advanced critical skills, knowledge and understanding for best practice in secondary education. Curriculum areas offered are: English, The Arts, Mathematics, Physical Education, Science, and Humanities and Social Sciences (HASS).

Study method
Online & on-campus
Duration
2 years full time or part time equivalent
Edith Cowan University

Become a professional educator in early learning environments

Meet children’s educational needs in kinder, pre-primary school, and childcare settings. This nationally accredited teaching degree includes the opportunity to pick up a specialisation during Year 4, including Catholic Studies and Special Education.

Study method
Online & on-campus
Duration
4 years full time or part time equivalent
Flinders University

Master of Teaching (Birth - 5)

PostgraduateFLI-TEA-MAS

Become an early childhood teacher in just 2 years

Focus on education in those pivotal years in the lives of children—and make a real difference. Study teaching online, from anywhere in Australia, and complete placements in your hometown. Join the in-demand profession of early childhood teachers.

Study method
Online & on-campus
Duration
2 years full time or part time equivalent
La Trobe University

Bachelor of Early Childhood Education

UndergraduateLAT-ECE-DEG

Formalise and build on your early childhood education experience

This degree offers a recognised pathway to qualified work in the kindergarten. Get up to speed with the current theory and technology for teaching early years. And through work-based learning, bring it all together in your classroom placements.

Study method
Online & on-campus
Duration
Approx. 2.5 years full time or part time equivalent
Southern Cross University

Double your options to work with young learners

From play to personal development, subjects in this degree prepare you to teach young and school aged children. Study the fundamentals of literacy and numeracy. Delve into science and art. Professional placements help you put theory into practice.

Study method
Online & on-campus
Duration
4 years full time or part time equivalent
Southern Cross University

Bachelor of Early Childhood Education

UndergraduateSCU-ECE-DEG

There’s great career prospects for trained early childhood teachers

Work in childcare centres, preschools and more. You’ll learn how to educate children aged six-weeks-old to six-years-old. Cover literacy, language, and pedagogical approaches. Capture their curiosity. Create healthy learning environments.

Study method
Online & on-campus
Duration
3 years full time or part time equivalent
Southern Cross University

A teaching degree that gives you more options

With the focus on primary teaching, this degree also covers English curriculum in secondary schools. Study the fundamentals of literacy and numeracy. Professional placements in both primary and secondary classrooms help you put theory into practice.

Study method
Online & on-campus
Duration
4 years full time or part time equivalent
Swinburne University of Technology

Master of Teaching (Primary)

PostgraduateSWI-MTP-MAS

Develop a holistic approach to learning

Take your undergraduate study to the next level. Experience real classroom placements and unique development opportunities. With accreditation from the Victorian Institute of Teaching, get ready to make a positive impact on the lives of children.

Study method
Online & on-campus
Duration
2 years full time or part time equivalent
University of New England

For a flexible career preparing children for life and school

Lay a foundation for lifelong development in young people from birth to 5 years. This course blends theory with practice, including professional placements. Explore the learning process from birth. Learn about early childhood services in Australia.

Study method
Online & on-campus
Duration
2 years full time or part time equivalent
University of Southern Queensland

Bachelor of Education (Early Childhood)

UndergraduateUSQ-BEC-DEG

A flexible and industry engaged ECE degree

Prepare to educate in early learning centres, kindergartens and primary school classrooms. You’ll get to know the young student and how they learn. Explore teaching and curriculum for the early years. Includes professional experience.

Study method
Online & on-campus
Duration
4 years full time or part time equivalent

Social work courses

Australian Catholic University

Master of Social Work (Qualifying)

PostgraduateACU-SWQ-MAS

Understand complex human problems

Challenge yourself to build on your social work knowledge and experience. You’ll deep dive into current research and practices. Strengthen your ethical foundations. Improve the lives of vulnerable individuals and families. Includes supervised placements.

Study method
Online & on-campus
Duration
2 years full time or part time equivalent
Flinders University

Master of Social Work (Graduate Entry)

PostgraduateFLI-MSW-MAS

Start your career as a social worker

Do you consider yourself a caring, compassionate person? Make these qualities your career. Gain the skills care for those facing hardships. Learn what’s considered best protocol in the standards set by the Australian Association of Social Workers.

Study method
Online & on-campus
Duration
2 years full time or part time equivalent
Griffith University

Master of Social Work

PostgraduateGRF-SWK-MAS

Become an advocate for people, families and communities

Prepare for practice as a social worker, building upon your professional knowledge, practical skills and ethical foundations. Develop expertise in social justice, human rights and community wellbeing.

Study method
Online & on-campus
Duration
2 years full time or part time equivalent
Southern Cross University

Bachelor of Social Work

UndergraduateSCU-SWK-DEG

Get professionally accredited and become a social worker

Study sociology and welfare theory, develop counselling and case management skills, and get to know Indigenous world-views. When you graduate, you’ll be equipped to help individuals and families with housing, rehabilitation, and disability services.

Study method
Online & on-campus
Duration
4 years full time or part time equivalent
University of New England

Bachelor of Social Work

UndergraduateUNE-SWK-DEG

Become an accredited social worker and empower individuals and communities

Learn to make a positive impact on clients' lives. You’ll study social welfare theory, engage in field education, and gain insight into social problems. Explore sociology. Build counselling and case management skills. Get ready for the challenge of social work.

Study method
Online & on-campus
Duration
4 years full time or part time equivalent

How to apply for the Commonwealth Prac Payment

  1. Check that you’re eligible

    You can ask your university directly if you’re unsure, or contact an Open Universities Australia student advisor.

  2. Complete an application form

    This is available online through your university's website. You should aim to apply within the two months before the start of your placement. However, you can apply if your placement has already started.

  3. Submit your supporting documents

    This means providing evidence of your income and work hours, or evidence of your Centrelink payments. Check with your uni for the exact documents required.

  4. Wait for approval

    You’ll get an email to let you know if your application has been successful.

  5. Receive your payment

    Payments will be made into your bank account weekly while you’re on placement.

Frequently asked questions

Frequently asked questions
Do all universities offer the Commonwealth Prac Payment (CPP)?

They do, but not all universities administer the payment in exactly the same way. While the CPP is an Australian Government initiative, each university has its own application process, timelines and required documents. You should check directly with your university to make sure you’re following their application process.

Can I receive the CPP if I’m studying part-time or online?

Yes, but only for the weeks you’re doing a full-time placement (at least 30 hours a week). It doesn’t matter if the rest of your course is online or part-time.

How long can I receive the CPP?

It depends on what you’re studying. Each course has a limit on how many weeks you can be paid. This is based on the placement hours you need to complete to qualify for that career.

Study discipline

Maximum number of weeks you can receive the CPP

Nursing (bachelor and masters degree)

20 weeks of placement

Midwifery (bachelor and masters degree)

20 weeks of placement (plus up to an additional 6 weeks for continuity of care)

Teaching (bachelor degree)

16 weeks of placement

Teaching (masters degree)

12 weeks of placement

Social work (bachelor and masters degree)

26 weeks of placement

Please note that some of these courses (for example undergraduate nursing and midwifery courses) aren’t currently available through Open Universities Australia. We’ve included information on these disciplines for your reference only.

What if my placement is split into shorter blocks?

If your placement is split into separate blocks (for example, you're required to complete two 8‑week teaching placements), you’ll receive your payments during each block, with a break in between.

Can I apply if I've already started my placement?

Yes, you can generally apply up to two months before, and six months after, the start date of your placement. If you’re approved, you’ll be paid the month after your placement block ends, or by the end of the month in which you applied – whichever is later.

It’s a good idea to double check the exact rules and deadlines with your university, as they may vary slightly.

What if I withdraw from my course or don't finish my placement?

If you withdraw from your course or don’t complete your placement, you’ll stop being eligible for the Commonwealth Prac Payment. Any payments you received for weeks you didn’t complete may need to be paid back to the Australian Government.

It’s important to let your university know as soon as possible if your placement changes, so they can update your payment and avoid overpayments.

Will the CPP affect my Centrelink payment?

It may affect how much you get from Centrelink, if you’re receiving income support like Austudy, Youth Allowance, ABSTUDY or the Disability Support Pension.

The Commonwealth Prac Payment counts as income, so it could reduce your Centrelink payment depending on how much you earn in that fortnight. You’ll need to report it, and Centrelink will work out if your payment needs to change.

Read more about how to report your payment on Services Australia.

Do I have to report the CPP as taxable income?

Yes. The CPP is considered taxable income, just like a salary. This means you must include it in your annual tax return for the financial year you received it.

Read more about your tax obligations on the Australian Taxation Office website.

Does the CPP replace my HECS-HELP or FEE-HELP loan?

No. The CPP is separate. It has no impact on your course fees or HELP loan.

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Where to find more information

The Australian Government website

The Department of Education's page that describes the CPP program in detail and includes the latest announcements.

The Australian Government website →

Services Australia

An explainer page to guide you through reporting any Commonwealth Prac Payments you get as income.

Services Australia →

StudyAssist

A page about student income support, including detailed information on the CPP.

StudyAssist →

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