Australia’s $6,442.25 Family Tax Benefit – The Australia Family Tax Benefit (FTB) is a crucial government payment that helps families manage the cost of raising children. In 2025, eligible Australian households can receive up to $6,442.25 annually through this scheme. If you’re a parent or guardian, understanding the ins and outs of this benefit — including who qualifies, how much you can get, and when payments are made — can make a big difference in your family’s budget.
The FTB is split into Part A and Part B, each targeting different types of families. Whether you’re a single parent, a dual-income household, or caring for teenagers still in school, this article will explain everything you need to know to ensure you’re getting the support you’re entitled to.
Australia’s $6,442.25 Family Tax Benefit
| Detail | FTB Part A | FTB Part B |
|---|---|---|
| Maximum Annual Payment | Up to $6,442.25 per child (aged 0–12) | Up to $4,909.36 per family |
| Payment Frequency | Fortnightly or annual lump sum | Fortnightly or annual lump sum |
| Eligibility | Families with children aged 0–19 (in school) | Single parents or one-income couples with children under 13 |
| Income Threshold (Full Rate) | $65,189 or less | $6,059 or less for secondary earner |
| Supplement | $916.15 per child | $448.95 per family |
| Official Source | Services Australia – FTB |
The Family Tax Benefit in 2025 continues to be a vital lifeline for Australian families, offering thousands of dollars in support each year. Whether you’re a single parent or part of a couple with children, understanding your eligibility and staying on top of your income and tax details can help you get the most from this program.
Don’t miss out — log in to myGov, review your eligibility, and make sure your income and family details are up to date.
What Is the Family Tax Benefit (FTB)?
The Family Tax Benefit is a financial assistance program offered by the Australian Government to help families with the cost of raising children. It is paid by Services Australia and is based on your income, number of children, age of the children, and care arrangements.
There are two parts to the FTB:
- FTB Part A: Paid per child. The amount depends on your family’s income and the number of dependent children.
- FTB Part B: Paid per family. It gives extra help to single-parent families or families with only one income.
How Much Can You Get in 2025?
FTB Part A – Payment Rates (2024–25)
- Children aged 0–12 years: Up to $222.04 per fortnight
- Children aged 13–15 years (or 16–19 in school): Up to $288.82 per fortnight
- Base rate: $71.26 per child per fortnight (if you exceed income thresholds)
- Annual Supplement: $916.15 per child — paid after the financial year once tax returns are lodged
If you claim the maximum fortnightly payment for a child aged 0–12, it adds up to:
$222.04 x 26 fortnights = $5,773.04 + $916.15 supplement = $6,689.19 per year
However, due to income tests and adjustments, most families receive an amount around $6,442.25, which includes both fortnightly and supplement payments.
FTB Part B – Payment Rates (2024–25)
- Child under 5 years: $188.86 per fortnight
- Child aged 5–18 (in single parent/grandparent care): $131.74 per fortnight
- Annual Supplement: $448.95 per family
If your youngest child is under 5 and you qualify fully:
$188.86 x 26 = $4,910.36 + $448.95 = $5,359.31
Who Is Eligible in 2025?
FTB Part A – Eligibility Criteria
To qualify, you must:
- Have a dependent child aged 0–15, or 16–19 if they are studying full-time and not receiving a government payment
- Be caring for the child at least 35% of the time
- Meet the residency requirement
- Meet the income test
FTB Part B – Eligibility Criteria
You may be eligible if:
- You are a single parent or one-income couple
- Your youngest child is under 13 (or under 18 if you’re a grandparent carer or single parent and the child is studying)
- Your secondary income earner earns less than $6,059 per year
How the Income Test Works?
For FTB Part A
- Full payment: Available if your adjusted taxable income is $65,189 or less
- If income exceeds that, payments reduce by:
- 20 cents per $1 over up to $115,997
- Then 30 cents per $1 over $115,997 until payments cut off
For FTB Part B
- Primary earner’s income isn’t capped, but
- Secondary earner’s income must be under $6,059 for full payment
- Reduces by 20 cents per $1 over $6,059 and cuts off at around $28,671
Use the official FTB estimator to check how much you’re eligible to receive.
When Will You Be Paid in 2025?
FTB payments can be made:
- Fortnightly: Most common option — money goes directly to your bank account every two weeks
- Annually (Lump Sum): After tax returns are lodged, typically from July to October each year
Annual Supplement Payment Dates
These are typically processed between July and October 2025, after Services Australia balances your payments using your tax return data.
How to Claim the Family Tax Benefit?
Claiming FTB is simple if you follow these steps:
- Log in to myGov and link your Centrelink account
- Navigate to ‘Payments and Claims’ → ‘Make a Claim’
- Select Family Assistance, then choose Family Tax Benefit
- Complete the application with accurate family and income details
- Wait for approval, usually within 21 days
If you can’t apply online, you can:
- Call the Families Line: 136 150
- Visit a Centrelink service centre
Can You Get FTB and Child Care Subsidy?
Yes — FTB can be combined with other family support programs like:
- Child Care Subsidy (CCS)
- Energy Supplement
- Newborn Upfront Payment
- Multiple Birth Allowance
- Rent Assistance
- Schoolkids Bonus (where applicable)
What If You’re Receiving Other Centrelink Payments?
FTB can interact with other Centrelink payments such as:
- Parenting Payment
- JobSeeker Payment
- Disability Support Pension
- Carer Payment
In most cases, receiving one of these won’t disqualify you from FTB, but your overall income and assets may affect how much FTB you receive.
Make sure to report all changes to your situation through myGov to avoid overpayments or debts.
Tips to Maximise Your FTB Payments
- Update income estimates quarterly to stay accurate
- Opt for annual lump-sum payments if your income varies widely
- Use the Centrelink app to manage claims and check payment status
- Lodge your tax return early to avoid delays in your annual supplement
- Check for linked entitlements, like Medicare Safety Nets or Health Care Card benefits
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Not updating income estimates: This can lead to overpayment and future debts
- Missing the tax return deadline: You may miss out on your annual supplement
- Not informing Centrelink of changes: Changes like a child leaving school or new employment can affect eligibility
Stay proactive by regularly checking your myGov portal
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FAQs
Q1. Can both parents receive FTB?
Only one parent (or carer) can receive FTB payments per child at any time, but care percentage can influence eligibility
Q2. Do I need to report income every fortnight?
Only if you receive income support or your income varies significantly. Otherwise, you provide an annual income estimate
Q3. Will I get back pay if I lodge late?
Yes, but only if you claim within 12 months of the financial year ending
Q4. Can I still claim if I live overseas temporarily?
Usually no — you must reside in Australia, but there are exceptions for temporary absences under certain conditions
Q5. What happens if my child turns 13 or 19?
Payment rates may change. Ensure they’re enrolled in full-time education to maintain eligibility beyond age 16
Q6. What if my income goes up during the year?
You must update your estimated income as soon as possible via myGov to avoid overpayments
