Assistance for Isolated Children (AIC) Scheme — Allowance Claim (SY040)

Issuing authority

Services Australia (Centrelink)

Official source

How to apply

1. Check eligibility at servicesaustralia.gov.au/who-can-get-assistance-for-isolated-children — the student must be of school age, unable to access a local government school due to geographic isolation, distance, or a special need, and an Australian resident.
2. Determine which allowance type applies: Boarding Allowance (student boards away from home), Distance Education Allowance, Second Home Allowance, or Pensioner Education Supplement (PES).
3. Create or log in to your myGov account at my.gov.au and link Centrelink if not already linked.
4. Download the Claim for Assistance for Isolated Children (AIC) form SY040 from servicesaustralia.gov.au/sy040, or request a paper copy by calling the AIC line on 132 318.
5. Complete form SY040 in full, including student details, school/education provider details, and the applicable allowance type.
6. Gather supporting documents such as the school enrolment confirmation, boarding receipts or lease agreement (if applicable), and evidence of the student's principal family home address and distance from the nearest suitable school.
7. Upload your completed form and supporting documents via your Centrelink online account or Express Plus Centrelink mobile app; alternatively, post or deliver to a Services Australia service centre.
8. Claims for a calendar year must be submitted by 1 March of the following year (e.g., 2026 claims due by 1 March 2027) — apply as early as possible as payments are not backdated beyond the claim start date.
9. If approved, AIC payments are made directly to the applicant (usually a parent/guardian) in quarterly instalments; the 2026 annual rate is approximately $5,277 for most families.

Related topics

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