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.

3.11.5.80 Exemption for JSP claimants who would previously have qualified for WA

Note: WA ceased on 1 January 2022.

Criteria for exemption

A woman is not required to undertake any mutual obligation requirements nor enter a Job Plan (EPP) if the following apply:

  • she made the claim for JSP on or after 1 July 2018
  • she was born on or before 1 July 1955
  • she ceased to be a member of a couple after turning 40
  • she has no recent workforce experience on the day she made the claim for JSP, and
  • she is not a member of a couple.

Recent workforce experience

Recent workforce experience is employment of 20 hours or more a week for a total of 13 weeks or more at any time during the 12 months immediately before the day the woman made the claim for JSP.

Policy reference: SS Guide 1.1.R.80 Recent workforce experience (PA, WA, JSP - cessation of claims for WA exemption)

Duration of exemption

The exemption remains in force for the period that the woman meets the criteria for exemption.

Example: A woman who subsequently re-partners would no longer be eligible for this exemption.

A woman who reclaims JSP after having it cancelled needs to meet all the criteria for the exemption for the most recent JSP claim, including the 'no recent workforce experience' criterion.

Act reference: Social Security Legislation Amendment (Streamlined Participation Requirements and Other Measures) Act 2022 Schedule 156(9) Women born on or before 1 July 1955

Last reviewed: