Extra bits
As a school leaver you are either already 18 years of age,
or soon will be, so now is the time to think about a few
important issues.
18 year olds are able to vote in local, state and federal
government elections. It is a great privilege to be able to
have your say at an election. Get involved and participate
in this democratic process; it is important that everyone’s
voice is heard. If you are 17, you can apply for enrolment
and when you turn 18 you will automatically be put
onto the electoral role so that you can participate in the
next government election. To make this happen visit the
Australian Electoral Commission website
or call 13 23 26.
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Everyone needs a tax file number (TFN). If you have had a
part-time job through school, you may already have one.
If not, now may be a useful time to apply for one. Your
TFN is used to identify your tax records. TFNs are used by:
- Employers who must take 46.5% tax out of your
wages if you don’t have a TFN;
- Centrelink, when assessing eligibility for payments
such as Youth Allowance or Austudy;
- Education institutions – without one you cannot take
out a HELP loan for your tuition costs;
- Financial Institutions which tax your interest by 46.5%,
if you don’t have a TFN.
To apply for a Tax File Number visit the
Australian Tax
Office website or call 13 28 61.
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Medicare Australia is an Australian Government agency
that ensures that all Australians have access to free or
low-cost medical, optometric and hospital care. You may
already be enrolled in Medicare and be listed on your
parents’ card, however young people over the age of 15
may enrol or transfer onto their own Medicare card. To
find out more about getting your own Medicare card visit
the
Medicare Australia website.
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ADF Gap Year is a new Australian Defence Force
(ADF) program for students or recent school
leavers. This 12 month program is designed
to provide you with a unique opportunity and
invaluable skills and experiences. You will be
paid for your participation in the program, and
there’s no requirement to serve after your gap
year. For more information visit
the
ADF Gap year website.
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