Commonwealth Prac Payment (CPP)

Starting in July 2025, the Commonwealth Prac Payment (CPP) will help students manage the costs associated with undertaking a mandatory placement (also known as a practicum) as part of a higher education course in teaching, nursing, midwifery, and social work.

Eligible students will receive $338.60* per week during their their 2026 placement. This payment has been benchmarked to the current single AUSTUDY allowance and will be adjusted in accordance with changes to that AUSTUDY rate on 1 January each year. The payment will help students manage the costs associated with undertaking mandatory placements.

*Note: this amount applies to placements completed from 2026.

Please note that the information provided about the Commonwealth Prac Payment is indicative only and may be subject to change pending the release of final guidelines by the Australian Government, Department of Education. You can find more information, including FAQs on the Department of Education website.

Important Information – New CPP Process

The Commonwealth Prac Payment (CPP) has introduced a new CPP Student Portal, where you can manage your application, placement and payment information all in one place. Please regularly check your Western Sydney University student email and carefully review all CPP communications for important updates and any actions you may need to complete.

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What’s Changing?

A new process has been introduced for the administration of the Commonwealth Prac Payment (CPP), providing students with a more streamlined way to manage their CPP.

The new process includes:

The eligibility requirements and payment rules remain the same. Only the administration of the program has changed.

How are CPP payments changing?
CPP payments are now paid directly into your nominated bank account. Payments are no longer made through Weel.
When do I provide my bank account details?
If your application is approved, you will be asked to provide your BSB and bank account number through the CPP Student Portal.
When are payments made?
CPP payments are processed weekly. After you successfully complete your first week of an eligible placement, your payment will generally be deposited into your nominated bank account by end of the week, subject to continued eligibility and confirmation of your placement information.
How do I access the CPP Student Portal?

Access the new CPP Student Portal, using your Western Sydney University student email address.

For example: 12345678@student.westernsydney.edu.au

A One-Time Passcode (OTP) will be sent to your student email address each time you log in. You do not need to create or remember a password.

Please check your student email, including your junk or spam folder, for the OTP and other important CPP communications.

What can I do in the portal?

You can:

  • Submit your CPP application
  • View your application status
  • Accept your CPP offer
  • Provide your bank account details
  • View payment information
  • Submit support enquiries
Where can I find more information or get help?

Watch the CPP Student Portal Information Video below for an overview of the process or contact the CPP Support Team through the CPP Student Portal.

If you need further assistance, contact the Scholarships Team at scholarships@westernsydney.edu.au or (02) 9852 5501.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vEndRstG5LQ

Eligibility
How to Apply
Payment
Student Requirements
Getting Help & Support
FAQs

For Existing Approved Students

I already have an approved CPP application. Do I need to apply again?
No. If you already have an approved CPP application, your information has been transferred to the new CPP Student Portal. You do not need to submit a new application, provided your circumstances have not changed. However, you will need to apply for CPP once every 12 months. If approved, your application will remain valid for 12 months from the date of approval.
Will I still receive my CPP payments?

Yes. If you continue to meet the CPP eligibility requirements and have an eligible placement, your payments will continue under the new process.

Please check your Western Sydney University student email and CPP Student Portal regularly for updates or any actions you need to complete.

What should I do now?

Please:

  • Log in to the CPP Student Portal and familiarise yourself with the new process.
  • Check your application, placement and payment information and complete any required actions.
  • Check your Weel account for any remaining balance.
What happens to my remaining Weel balance?

Any remaining funds in your Weel account are separate from the new CPP payment process. We encourage you to use any remaining balance in your Weel account.

Please check your Western Sydney University student email and CPP Student Portal regularly for updates or any actions you need to complete.

Will my previous CPP payments be affected?
No. Payments you have already received are not affected by the new process. Future payments will be managed through the new arrangements, provided you continue to meet the CPP eligibility and placement requirements.

New students applying for CPP

How do I apply?

Applications are submitted online through the CPP Student Portal[[link]]. Follow the instructions in the portal and provide the required information and supporting documentation.

Depending on your circumstances, supporting documents may include:

  • Evidence of an eligible Australian Government income support payment; or
  • Evidence of your employment, hours worked and income for the required four-week period, such as payslips, payroll records or a letter from your employer; and
  • Any additional supporting documentation relevant to your circumstances.

Important: Please ensure your full name is clearly displayed on all supporting documentation submitted with your application.

Does receiving an invitation mean I am automatically eligible?
No. Receiving an invitation means you may be eligible to apply for CPP. Your application will be assessed against the Commonwealth Prac Payment eligibility criteria before an outcome is determined.
When can I apply?
You can apply at any time through the CPP Student Portal[[link]], including before your placement dates are confirmed. Your application may be Provisionally Approved while your placement details are being finalised. Once your eligible placement is confirmed, your eligibility and payment information will be updated in the portal. You will need to apply for CPP once every 12 months. If approved, your application will remain valid for 12 months from the date of approval.

Need Assistance?

For further assistance please call the Student Services Hub on (02) 9852 5501 or email scholarships@westernsydney.edu.au

CPP Student Portal[[button]]

CPP Student Guide - Video[[button]]

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