What Is Workforce Australia?
Workforce Australia is the Australian Government's employment services system that replaced jobactive in July 2022. It connects job seekers receiving income support payments with assistance, training, and employers. The system is delivered through a combination of an online platform and a network of Workforce Australia providers across the country.
Who Workforce Australia Is For
Workforce Australia services are available to people who are:
- Receiving JobSeeker Payment, Youth Allowance (job seeker), or another activity-tested income support payment
- Required to meet mutual obligation requirements
- Looking for employment or seeking to improve their job readiness
Not everyone uses the same stream of service. Your pathway depends on how close to employment-ready you are assessed to be.
The Two Main Streams
1. Workforce Australia Online
If you are assessed as more job-ready, you may be placed in the online stream. This means you manage most of your requirements through the Workforce Australia website, including:
- Setting up a points-based activation system (PBAS) — earning points toward your obligations by completing job searches, training, and other activities
- Accessing job matches, résumé tools, and career resources online
- Tracking your mutual obligation requirements digitally
2. Workforce Australia with a Provider
If you face more significant barriers to employment — such as limited work experience, health conditions, or long-term unemployment — you'll be connected with a local Workforce Australia provider. These are private and community organisations contracted by the government to deliver face-to-face employment support, including:
- One-on-one case management
- Help with résumés and interview preparation
- Access to training and upskilling programs
- Connections to local employers and job opportunities
- Wage subsidies for employers who hire eligible candidates
The Points-Based Activation System (PBAS)
The online stream uses a points system to track mutual obligation compliance. Each fortnight you need to earn a set number of points by completing a range of approved activities:
- Job applications — a set number of points per application
- Training and courses — points for completion of approved courses
- Interviews and assessments
- Volunteering
- Work experience
The flexibility of the points system allows job seekers to tailor their activities to their strengths and circumstances.
Disability Employment Services (DES)
Job seekers with a disability, injury, or health condition may be referred to Disability Employment Services (DES) rather than mainstream Workforce Australia services. DES providers offer specialised, intensive support to help people with disability find and maintain sustainable employment. There are two streams within DES:
- DES – Disability Management Service: For people who need occasional workplace support
- DES – Employment Support Service: For people with permanent disability who need ongoing support in the workplace
Apprenticeships and Traineeships Support
Workforce Australia also connects job seekers with Australian Apprenticeship Support Network (AASN) providers, who help individuals find, start, and complete apprenticeships and traineeships. The government also offers various financial incentives for apprentices and their employers.
How to Get Started
- If you're receiving an income support payment, you'll typically be automatically referred to Workforce Australia by Services Australia.
- You'll be directed to complete an online assessment to determine which stream suits your needs.
- Access services through the workforce.gov.au website or attend your local Workforce Australia provider.
If you believe you've been placed in the wrong stream, you can request a reassessment through Services Australia.