Australia Centrelink Family Tax Benefits in February 2025: Raising a family can be financially challenging, and knowing the available government support can make a big difference. In Australia, the Family Tax Benefit (FTB), provided by Centrelink, helps families with the cost of raising children. As of February 2025, understanding the current benefit amounts, eligibility criteria, and application process is crucial to ensuring your family receives the financial support it qualifies for.
Australia Centrelink Family Tax Benefits in February 2025
The Family Tax Benefit (FTB) is an essential financial support program for Australian families, helping with the cost of raising children. With FTB Part A providing per-child payments and FTB Part B assisting single-income families, understanding the eligibility criteria, income tests, and application process is crucial. To ensure you receive the correct amount, families should update income details yearly, ensure children meet immunization requirements, and apply through myGov. For full details, visit Services Australia.
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| FTB Part A | Per-child payment to assist with the cost of raising children. Rates vary based on the child’s age and family income. |
| FTB Part B | Extra assistance for single-parent families and families with one main income. Rates depend on the age of the youngest child and family income. |
| Income Tests | Both parts have specific income thresholds affecting payment rates. Your adjusted taxable income (ATI) determines how much you can receive. |
| Residency Requirements | You and the child must meet residency requirements to be eligible for FTB. (servicesaustralia.gov.au) |
| How to Apply | Applications are submitted via myGov (linked to Centrelink) or at a Services Australia office. |
Understanding Family Tax Benefit (FTB)
The Family Tax Benefit is a two-part payment from the Australian Government, designed to help families with the cost of raising children. It is managed by Services Australia and consists of:
✔ FTB Part A – Paid per child, based on family income.
✔ FTB Part B – Additional support for single parents and families with one main income.
Both payments have income tests and eligibility requirements, so families must understand how the payments are structured.
FTB Part A: Overview and Payment Rates
What is FTB Part A?
FTB Part A is a per-child payment designed to assist families with daily living expenses. The amount received depends on family income and the child’s age.
Payment Rates (As of February 2025)
- Base Rate: $68.46 per fortnight for each child.
- Maximum Rate (depends on income and child’s age):
- Child aged 0-12 years → Up to $204.50 per fortnight
- Child aged 13-15 years → Up to $267.10 per fortnight
- Child aged 16-19 years (if studying full-time) → Up to $267.10 per fortnight
FTB Part A Income Test
- Families earning below $59,000 per year receive the full amount.
- Payments reduce for families earning above $59,000.
- Payments completely stop if income exceeds a certain threshold.
FTB Part B: Overview and Payment Rates
What is FTB Part B?
FTB Part B provides extra assistance for:
✔ Single-parent families
✔ Families with one primary income (where one parent stays home or works reduced hours)
Payment Rates (As of February 2025)
- Youngest child under 5 years → Up to $4,923.85 per year
- Youngest child aged 5-13 years → Up to $3,434.65 per year
- Single parents or grandparent carers (youngest child under 18) → Up to $3,434.65 per year
FTB Part B Income Test
- Single parents → No income test.
- Couples (where one parent earns the majority income) →
- Payments start reducing if the main earner earns over $100,900 per year.
- Payments completely stop if the main earner earns above $110,900 per year.
Eligibility Criteria
Residency Requirements
- You and your child must be Australian residents or hold a qualifying visa.
Care of a Dependent Child
- FTB Part A → For children under 19 years, attending school full-time.
- FTB Part B → Available for single parents or families with one primary income.
Income Limits Apply
- FTB payments are reduced or cut off entirely for high-income families.
- Immunization requirements apply for FTB Part A (children must be up to date with vaccinations).
How to Apply for Australia Centrelink Family Tax Benefits in February 2025?
Step-by-Step Application Process
Check Your Eligibility
- Use the FTB Calculator on myGov to see how much you can receive.
Prepare Documents
- Proof of identity (passport, driver’s license).
- Tax file number (TFN).
- Birth certificates & school enrollment records for children.
Submit an Application
- Apply online through myGov (linked to Centrelink).
- Visit a Services Australia office if applying in person.
Wait for Assessment & Approval
- Processing usually takes 28 days.
- Payments start from the date of approval.
Commonwealth Bank Cancels $3 Fee After Facing Strong Backlash from Customers: Check Details
$841 Age Pension Increase and $21 Bonus for 2025 – Full Payment Schedule & Eligibility
$558 Domestic Violence Aid from Centrelink in 2025 – How to claim it? Check Eligibility
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: How often is Family Tax Benefit paid?
FTB is paid fortnightly, or families can choose to receive it as an annual lump sum at tax time.
Q2: Can FTB be backdated?
Yes, you can claim FTB for up to one year after the financial year ends.
Q3: Do I need to update my income details every year?
Yes! Families must report income yearly to avoid overpayments (which may need to be repaid).
Q4: Can I receive FTB if I receive Paid Parental Leave?
No, FTB and Paid Parental Leave (PPL) cannot be received together. You must choose one.
Q5: What happens if my income changes?
If your income increases, your FTB may be reduced.
If your income decreases, you may receive more FTB.
Update your details on myGov to avoid overpayments and unexpected debts.
