The Guides to Social Policy Law is a collection of publications designed to assist decision makers administering social policy law. The information contained in this publication is intended only as a guide to relevant legislation/policy. The information is accurate as at the date listed at the bottom of the page, but may be subject to change. To discuss individual circumstances please contact Services Australia.

3.11.1 Looking for & accepting suitable work

Introduction

As a condition of payment, job seekers generally must be actively seeking and willing to undertake any suitable work (3.11.1.20). A job search is an instance where a job seeker actively contacts a potential employer to obtain paid work. A job search may include contact by phone, in writing, or in person, including by submitting a written or online application, or acting on a referral to a job.

In assessing whether a person has undertaken an adequate job search, the delegate must consider the number of job searches undertaken by the job seeker and, if the person has undertaken the required number, the delegate may also, but is not required to, consider the quality of the job searches and any other relevant matter. This is intended to ensure that job seekers' job searches are genuine attempts to find work, and that job seekers are not unreasonably restricting their search efforts when other work is available.

Last reviewed: 26 October 2026

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