You have to actively look for work or you may be hassled by Centrelink.

It is possible to get a temporary exemption from the Activity Test if you are unwell and unable to work. You would need to lodge a medical certificate showing the dates you are unwell. Centrelink may still expect you to meet some requirements while you are ill, so check to see what you need to do.

If you are unable to seek work for a longer period of time, e.g more than two years, you may need to apply for another payment, such as Disability Support Pension or Special Benefit.

If you are involved in any groups or activities that take up a lot of your time (e.g. rehabilitation or detoxification centres) it may be difficult to meet Centrelink's requirements about looking for work. You can be cut off or suspended unless you get an exemption from some of those requirements. You should advise Centrelink if you are not able to actively seek work, or meet any particular requirements. You may also need to get your Preparing for Work Agreement changed if you can't meet some of the requirements.

You have to take your dole form to the Centrelink office every fortnight in person. If you're a day or two late, your benefit could be stopped, unless you have an acceptable reason such as illness, or doing casual work on the due date. You should advise Centrelink if you are not able to lodge forms yourself due to illness.

If you don't go along to an interview that Centrelink tells you about, your payment could be cut off and you may be suspended. (See 'Interviews and visits from Centrelink officers', below).