Raising a family isn’t always easy – child responsibilities, expenses, school, food and daily needs take a lot of effort. But the good news is that the Australian government has created a great scheme to help families – called Family Tax Benefit or FTB.
In 2025, if you are eligible, you can get up to $6,442.25 annually under this scheme. Let’s understand in detail today how to get this benefit, who is eligible, how to apply and when the payment will be received.
What is Family Tax Benefit (FTB)?
Family Tax Benefit is a financial assistance scheme of the Australian government that helps families with the expenses related to raising children. This scheme is divided into two parts – FTB Part A and FTB Part B.
- FTB Part A: This is for every family who has children, and whose income is low. In this, payment is given based on the age of the child.
- FTB Part B: This is especially for single parents or families where only one person earns.
If you are eligible for both parts, then you can get the benefit of both.
How much will you get in 2025?
You will be happy to know that in 2025, a maximum of $6,442.25 can be received annually for a child under FTB Part A. Along with this, additional assistance is also available from FTB Part B, which depends on the age of your younger child.
FTB Part A – Understand in simple words
The purpose of this part is to provide financial help in raising children. This payment is based on your income and the age of the child.
Payment rates (2025)
- Children aged 0-12 – $222.04 per fortnight (fortnightly)
- Children aged 13-15 – $288.82 per fortnight
- Children aged 16-19 (if studying full-time) – $288.82 per fortnight
Annual supplement
If you are eligible for FTB Part A throughout the year and your income is verified, you can get an additional $916.15 per child – called the FTB Supplement.
FTB Part B – specifically for single parents
If you are a single parent, or the only earning person in your family, FTB Part B is for you. Payments depend on the age of the youngest child.
Payment rates (2025)
- Child under 5 years old – $4,923.85 per year
- Child aged 5-13 years old – $3,434.65 per year
Annual supplement
You can get an additional $448.95 at the end of the year, provided your income is verified.
What are the income limits?
For FTB Part A:
- Full payment is available for earnings up to $65,189 per year.
- Payments gradually decrease after you exceed this limit.
For FTB Part B:
- Primary income limit – $117,194 per year.
- If the other partner also earns, payments begin to be reduced when their income is above $6,789.
Eligibility criteria
You must meet certain conditions to get FTB:
- You must have a child or a child who is 16 to 19 years old and is in full-time education.
- You must be caring for the child at least 35% of the time.
- Both you and the child must be residents of Australia.
Application process – easy and straightforward
Now let’s talk about how to apply for this benefit.
Online application
The fastest way is to apply by connecting to Centrelink through myGov account.
Offline application
If you want, you can also apply by visiting the Services Australia office. Carry the documents with you.
Documents required before applying
- Identity card (such as passport or driving license)
- Tax file number (TFN)
- Children’s birth certificate or proof of school enrollment
How and when do you get the payment?
You have two options:
- Fortnightly – This method is preferred by most people because it gives regular payments.
- Lump Sum – At the end of the year, when you file your tax return.
Note – Australia’s financial year runs from 1 July to 30 June. After this, Services Australia balances your income and situation and determines the right payment.
Extra Benefits – Not just FTB
If you are getting FTB Part A, then you can get many other benefits:
1. Rent Assistance
If you are living in a private rented house and are getting FTB Part A, then you can get help with rent.
2. Health Care Card
Families getting the maximum rate of FTB Part A get this card, which gives you cheaper medicines and many other concessions.
3. Immunization and Health Check
Immunization of children and in some states, health check at the age of 4 years is mandatory. This ensures that your eligibility remains.
Frequently asked questions (FAQs)
1. Can I get both FTB Part A and B?
Yes, you can get both payments if you are eligible for both.
2. What if my income changes mid-year?
You must let Services Australia know immediately to avoid overpayments or underpayments.
3. What are the other benefits associated with FTB Part A?
Additional supports include Rent Assistance, Health Care Card and Energy Supplement.
4. Do you need a tax return to get Annual Supplements?
Yes, you and your partner need to file a tax return or state that a tax return is not required.
5. What if I share childcare with someone else?
Your payments will be proportionate to the time you care for the child.
6. Can I backdate my FTB claim?
Yes, you can backdate your claim up to 1 year, provided you were eligible at the time.
7. What is the Energy Supplement?
This is an additional payment given to FTB Part A recipients to help with expenses such as electricity and water.
8. What if my income estimate is wrong?
You can update your income estimate anytime from myGov or call Services Australia.
9. Can grandparents or non-parents also claim?
Yes, if they care for the child 35% or more of the time and meet the other criteria.
10. Where can I find out more?
You can find out more by visiting Services Australia’s website or by contacting them.
Conclusion
The Family Tax Benefit Scheme in 2025 has emerged as a strong financial support for millions of families living in Australia. If you have a low income, are caring for children and meet other eligibility criteria, this benefit can make a big difference in your household budget.
With the right information, necessary documents and timely application, you can take full advantage of this scheme.
Website: www.servicesaustralia.gov.au
Contact: Services Australia – 136 150
