If you are unemployed, each fortnight you will be required to submit a form to Centrelink documenting the efforts you have made to find work. Usually, you will be expected to look in newspapers and the Centrelink office for suitable jobs, and to contact a specific number of potential employers. This number will vary according to where you live and your personal circumstances.

Remember, farmers and other local family businesses that are potential employers can be listed on your form.

Centrelink expects you to show you are 'willing to undertake work' by attending any interviews they (or employment services provider) arrange, and by accepting offers of suitable work.

Centrelink will also issue you with a Participation Record or a Job Seeker Diary. This is used to record your work, income and job search. It must be returned “satisfactorily” on the due date, or you can be penalised.