Workforce Retention application deadline extended: providers have until 30 September to secure backdated funding

The Department of Education has extended the original 30 June 2025 deadline for Workforce Retention Payment (WRP) applications, with approved providers now able to submit until 30 September 2025 and still access backdated funding to support workforce retention efforts.

For a refresher on the WRP’s purpose, benefits and key eligibility criteria, refer to our earlier article: Clarifying the Workforce Retention Payment: facts, benefits and key deadlines.

Crucially, the department has also updated the application requirement.

Instead of needing a fully completed application by the deadline, providers now only need to have their application submitted by 30 September.

This change allows applications with minor errors or outstanding information to remain eligible for backdating, provided they are submitted on time.

In a related change, the funding review backdating end date has been extended to 31 October 2025.

The department will also communicate these changes via its website, newsletter and social media channels.

Further guidance on the WRP Alternative Fee Constraint assessment process will be made available on the department’s website from Monday 16 June.

This information aims to support providers in better understanding how their applications are assessed.

The department has acknowledged the feedback from the sector in shaping these updates and thanked stakeholders for their ongoing engagement.

For more information on the Worker Retention Payment and recent updates, visit here.