3.8.9.30 Determining the FAA Reimbursement for Austudy, PES & YA

Introduction

FAA is normally paid to eligible recipients of Austudy, PES and YA for the least expensive mode of public transport that is practicable. Where public transport is not practicable, a person may be able to claim FAA for the use of a private vehicle or for travel by taxi. If a person chooses to travel by private vehicle when public transport is available, they can only claim the equivalent of the least expensive public transport fare.

Note: The period of time needed for the journey and any illness or incapacity of the person must be taken into account in deciding what is practicable or reasonable for the purpose of this section.

Travel by private car

The following table shows the rates for reimbursement of FAA where the journey was made by private car. These rates commenced on 1 January 2003.

Travel by taxi

If the student travelled by taxi, FAA is reimbursed at 63 cents per kilometre.

Travel by other modes of transport

For other modes of transport, the FAA reimbursement is the cost of the ticket for the mode of transport for which the student was eligible.

Act reference: SSAct section 1061ZAAK Fares allowance for private transport

Policy reference: SS Guide 3.8.9.20 FAA Entitlement, 3.8.9.10 Eligibility for FAA, 3.8.9.60 Payment of FAA

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Last reviewed: 7 December 2009