In 2025, Australian families may be eligible for the Family Tax Benefit (FTB), offering substantial financial support to assist with the costs of raising children.
This benefit comprises two parts: FTB Part A and FTB Part B, collectively providing up to $6,442.25 annually per child. Understanding the eligibility criteria, payment structures, and application processes is essential to maximize these benefits.
FTB Part A: Financial Assistance Details
FTB Part A aids families with the everyday expenses of child-rearing.
- Payment Rates for 2025: Child’s AgeFortnightly PaymentAnnual Payment0–12 yearsUp to $222.04Up to $5,785.0413–15 yearsUp to $288.82Up to $7,514.3216–19 years (if studying)Up to $288.82Up to $7,514.32
- Annual Supplement: An additional $916.15 per child is available, payable after the financial year ends, contingent on income confirmation.
- Income Thresholds: The free threshold is $65,189 per annum. Payments decrease as family income exceeds this amount.
FTB Part B: Additional Support for Single-Income Families
FTB Part B offers extra assistance to single-parent and single-income families.
- Payment Rates for 2025: Youngest Child’s AgeAnnual PaymentUnder 5 yearsUp to $4,923.855–13 yearsUp to $3,434.65
- Annual Supplement: An extra $448.95 per family is available, payable after the financial year ends, subject to income verification.
- Income Limits: The primary earner’s income must be $117,194 or less annually. The secondary earner’s income can affect payment amounts, with reductions starting if they earn above $6,789 per year.
Eligibility Criteria for FTB Parts A and B
To qualify for these benefits:
- Residency: Both the claimant and the child must meet Australian residency requirements.
- Child’s Status: The child must be under 19 years old and meet specific care requirements.
Application Process
- Automatic Payments: Many families receive payments automatically based on their tax return information.
- Manual Application: Families not automatically receiving payments, such as those in certain care arrangements, should apply through the myGov portal linked to Centrelink or visit a Services Australia office.
Payment Dates
Payments can be received:
- Fortnightly: Regular payments throughout the year.
- Lump Sum: A single payment after the financial year ends, following income verification.
The Australian financial year runs from July 1 to June 30. After this period, Services Australia balances payments to ensure recipients received the correct amount.
Additional Benefits
- Rent Assistance: Available for eligible renters receiving FTB Part A.
- Health Care Card: Families receiving the maximum rate of FTB Part A may be eligible for a Health Care Card, offering reduced-cost prescription medicines and other concessions.
- Immunization Requirements: To maintain FTB Part A eligibility, children must meet immunization requirements.
The Family Tax Benefit provides significant financial support to Australian families, with potential payments up to $6,442.25 per child in 2025.
Understanding the details of FTB Parts A and B, including eligibility criteria, payment structures, and application processes, is crucial to maximizing these benefits.
For personalized information, visit the Services Australia website or contact their helpline.
FAQs
How do I apply for the Family Tax Benefit?
You can apply through your myGov account linked to Centrelink or by visiting a Services Australia office.
When will I receive my Family Tax Benefit payments?
Payments can be received fortnightly or as a lump sum after the financial year ends, following income verification.
Are there any income limits for receiving the Family Tax Benefit?
Yes, payments reduce as family income exceeds certain thresholds. For FTB Part A, the free threshold is $65,189 per annum. For FTB Part B, the primary earner’s income must be $117,194 or less annually.