Raising children comes with financial challenges, and for many Australian families, the Family Tax Benefit (FTB) is an essential lifeline. In 2025, the government continues to offer up to $6,442.25 per child annually through this long-standing support system. Whether you’re managing childcare as a single parent or balancing expenses in a dual-income household, understanding the FTB could significantly lighten your financial load.
A Closer Look at the Family Tax Benefit Program
The Family Tax Benefit is a financial initiative provided by the Australian Government to support eligible families with the cost of raising children. This benefit is delivered by Services Australia under the guidance of the Department of Social Services. The FTB is divided into two segments: Part A, which offers assistance per child, and Part B, which provides extra support for single parents or households where one parent is the primary income earner. Families may be eligible for one or both parts depending on their circumstances.
Payment Estimates for Families in 2025
Under the latest update for 2025, FTB Part A offers fortnightly payments that vary based on the age of the child. For children under 13 years, the payment can be up to $213.36 per fortnight, amounting to approximately $5,547.36 per year. For those aged between 13 and 15, the rate increases to $277.48 per fortnight, or around $7,214.48 annually. On average, many families will receive about $6,442.25 per child each year, factoring in indexing and age group adjustments. Additionally, families may be entitled to FTB supplements, which are additional lump-sum payments processed after income confirmation at the end of the financial year.
Additional Support Through FTB Part B
FTB Part B is specifically designed for single-parent households or families where one adult earns the bulk of the income. If you’re caring for a child under 5, you could receive up to $168.28 every two weeks. For children between 5 and 18 years old, the benefit adjusts to $117.46 per fortnight. These funds aim to offer more targeted support where financial flexibility is most needed, such as in homes where one parent may be out of the workforce to care for young children.
Meeting the Requirements: Who Can Claim FTB?
To be eligible for the Family Tax Benefit, there are a few key conditions. You must reside in Australia and be either an Australian citizen or hold a qualifying visa. The child in your care should be under 20 years of age and enrolled in full-time secondary education, unless an exemption applies. In addition, families must meet the income criteria. For FTB Part A, full benefits are accessible to those earning $60,000 or less annually, with gradual reductions above that threshold. For Part B, the second earner’s income must be below $6,059 for full payments, tapering off up to $28,945 per year.
How to Access Your Benefits: The Application Process
Applying for the Family Tax Benefit is a straightforward process through myGov. To begin, you must set up a myGov account and link it to Centrelink. You’ll then need to gather essential documents such as your tax file number, income estimates, proof of your child’s birth or adoption, and your bank details. After submitting the FTB claim form and required documents, you’ll typically receive a decision within 21 days. Once approved, payments will be made based on your selected frequency either fortnightly or as a lump sum after the financial year ends.
Income Estimates and Payment Adjustments
Your FTB amount is calculated based on your estimated annual income. It’s important to provide accurate forecasts to avoid any financial surprises. If you underestimate your income, you might need to repay excess funds received. On the other hand, if you overestimate, you could receive a top-up supplement after tax time. The government offers additional financial aids like the FTB Supplement up to $817.60 per child for Part A and $397.85 for Part B to further support families, along with automatic payments such as the Energy Supplement and Rent Assistance if you’re eligible.
Benefits That Go Beyond Direct Payments
The Family Tax Benefit doesn’t just ease immediate household expenses it can also increase access to other government assistance programs. Receiving FTB can make you eligible for the Child Care Subsidy, Parenting Payment, and the Low Income Health Care Card. Together, these supports work in tandem to create a more robust safety net, especially for families navigating financial hardship or unpredictable employment patterns. As always, it’s worth reviewing all government support programs you might qualify for.