Work for the Dole places job seekers in activities where they can gain skills and experience, give back to the community and get help to find a job. Find information for job seekers, Host Organisations and Indigenous specific Work for the Dole Activities.
Six Month Activity Requirement (SMAR)
From 1 October 2021, if you have completed 6 months in employment services, you have to complete a Six Month Activity Requirement. To meet the requirement you will need to undertake study or training, paid work or an approved activity for up to 8 weeks.
If you’re an eligible job seeker and you do not choose an approved activity, you may be required to complete an 8 week placement in Work for the Dole.
Work for the Dole phase
The Work for the Dole phase starts after 12 months in jobactive. In the Work for the Dole phase, you must complete an Annual Activity Requirement (AAR) for 6 months each year while in jobactive. Activities can include:
- Work for the Dole
- Voluntary work
- Study or training
- Career Transition Assistance
- The National Work Experience Programme
Work for the Dole program
The Work for the Dole program helps job seekers develop skills and experience for work. It is one of the ways a job seeker in jobactive can meet their Annual Activity Requirement (AAR) or Six Month Activity Requirement (SMAR).
If you're eligible, you'll receive an extra $20.80 a fortnight to help with expenses, such as transport. Activities can be individually hosted or group based.
You can take part in Work for the Dole if you:
- Are with a jobactive provider; or
- Are with an Enhanced Services Provider in the New Employment Services Trial NEST)
Host Organisations
Work for the Dole activities can only be hosted by not-for-profit organisations and government agencies.
As a Work for the Dole host, you'll need to provide:
- Work-like activities for participants
- Appropriate supervision and any on-the-job training needed
- Records of attendance
- Tasks that meet all relevant work health and safety requirements
Indigenous specific activities
Indigenous specific Work for the Dole Activities are activities that:
- Have an Indigenous Host Organisation
- Benefit an Indigenous community
- Are linked to community goals
- Help support achievable and meaningful career pathways for Indigenous job seekers.
Activities can be individually hosted or group based. Non-Indigenous job seekers can also participate in Indigenous specific activities.
