Raising kids in Australia isn’t cheap, but the Family Tax Benefit (FTB) is here to ease the financial load. Starting 1 July 2025, eligible families can receive up to $227.36 per fortnight for each child aged 0–12 under FTB Part A. For older kids, payments can go even higher. This guide explains the 2025–26 payment rates, who qualifies, income limits, and key dates in a simple, easy-to-read way.
What is the Family Tax Benefit?
The Family Tax Benefit (FTB) Part A is a fortnightly payment from Services Australia (Centrelink) designed to help families with the costs of raising children. It supports parents with dependent kids under 19, with payment amounts depending on your child’s age, your family’s income, and the number of children you care for.
Family Tax Benefit 2025 Payment Rates
For the 2025–26 financial year (1 July 2025 to 30 June 2026), here are the maximum FTB Part A rates:
| Child’s Age | Maximum Fortnightly Rate |
|---|---|
| 0–12 years | $227.36 |
| 13–15 years | $295.82 |
| 16–19 years (full-time study) | $295.82 |
Payments are deposited directly into your bank account every two weeks, making it easier to manage family expenses.
Who Qualifies for FTB Part A in 2025?
To receive the Family Tax Benefit in 2025, you need to meet these eligibility criteria:
- Residency: You must be an Australian resident or hold a Special Category Visa (SCV) and live in Australia.
- Care Level: You must care for a dependent child at least 35% of the time.
- Child’s Age: The child must be under 19 years old.
- Education: For teens aged 16–19, they must be in full-time secondary education (or have an exemption).
- Health Requirements: Your child must meet immunisation and Healthy Start for School requirements.
How Income Affects Your Payments
Your family’s taxable income plays a big role in determining your FTB payment amount. Here’s how it works:
- Families earning less than $66,772 per year typically qualify for the maximum rate.
- Payments reduce by 20 cents for every dollar earned above $66,772, up to $118,771.
- If your income exceeds $118,771, the reduction jumps to 30 cents per dollar.
Here’s a quick look at maximum income limits based on the number of children:
| Number of Children | Max Income (0–12 yrs) | Max Income (13–19 yrs) |
|---|---|---|
| 1 Child | $86,852 | $106,982 |
| 2 Children | $85,776 | $115,906 |
Is Family Tax Benefit Taxable?
Good news: FTB payments are completely tax-free. However, at the end of the financial year, Services Australia will review your income. If your actual income differs from what you estimated, you might:
- Receive a top-up payment if you earned less than expected.
- Need to repay an overpayment if you earned more.
To avoid surprises, keep your income details updated with Centrelink.
Key Dates and Details for 2025
- Start Date: 1 July 2025
- End Date: 30 June 2026
- Payment Frequency: Fortnightly
- Maximum Rates: $227.36 (0–12 years), $295.82 (13–19 years in full-time study)
- Authority: Services Australia (Centrelink)
- Website: servicesaustralia.gov.au
How to Check Your Eligibility
Want to know exactly how much you’ll get? Use the Services Australia Payment Estimator on your myGov account. It’s quick, easy, and gives you a personalized estimate based on your family’s situation.
Why FTB Matters
The Family Tax Benefit is a lifeline for many Australian families. Whether it’s covering school supplies, groceries, or extracurricular activities, these fortnightly payments help make life a bit more affordable. By understanding the rates and rules, you can plan your budget with confidence.
FAQs About Family Tax Benefit 2025
When do the new FTB rates start?
The new rates begin on 1 July 2025 and run until 30 June 2026.
How much can I get for teenagers?
Families with teens aged 13–19 in full-time study can receive up to $295.82 per fortnight.
Is FTB taxable?
No, Family Tax Benefit payments are not taxed.
How often will I receive payments?
Payments are made every two weeks into your nominated bank account.
What happens if my income changes?
Update your income details with Centrelink as soon as possible to avoid overpayments or debts.
Conclusion
The Family Tax Benefit 2025, offering up to $227.36 per fortnight, is a crucial support for Australian families. With clear eligibility rules and income-based rates, it helps parents manage the costs of raising kids. Check your eligibility on the Services Australia website and keep your income details updated to ensure smooth payments. For more details, visit servicesaustralia.gov.au or use the myGov Payment Estimator today.