Welcoming a new baby is thrilling, but those early costs add up quick. If you’re an Aussie parent, Centrelink’s Newborn Upfront Payment and Newborn Supplement could give you a boost. In 2025, eligible families get up to $2,735.05 for their first child. Let’s unpack the details so you know if it applies to you.
What Is the Centrelink Newborn Payment?
This support helps cover baby essentials like cots, clothes, and nappies. It’s part of Family Tax Benefit Part A, combining a one-off lump sum with extra payments over 13 weeks. 10 Available for births, adoptions, or kids entering your care under one year old. It’s not the old Baby Bonus— this is targeted aid for low to middle-income families.
How Much Can You Get in 2025?
Amounts depend on your family income and if it’s your first child. For max rates, your adjusted taxable income must be under $60,000 (or higher with more kids). 10 Here’s the breakdown effective from July 1, 2025:
| Situation | Upfront Payment | Supplement (Over 13 Weeks) | Total Amount |
|---|---|---|---|
| First child | $683 | $2,052.05 | $2,735.05 |
| Other children | $683 | $685.23 | $1,368.23 |
These figures are tax-free and won’t affect other benefits. 1 For multiples like twins, you might combine this with Parental Leave Pay.
Who Qualifies for the Newborn Payment?
You need to be the main carer and live in Australia. Key checks include:
- Claiming Family Tax Benefit Part A for the child.
- Not getting Parental Leave Pay for the same baby.
- Meeting income tests: Full amount if family income is $60,000 or less; partial if up to $112,906 (plus extras per child). 3
- Assets under limits, like $1.8 million for families.
Adoptive or foster parents qualify too if the child is under one. 3 Share care? Payments adjust based on your share.
When and How Do Payments Arrive?
The upfront $683 hits your account soon after approval. The supplement adds to your fortnightly FTB Part A for 13 weeks. 10 Choose fortnightly payments or a lump sum at tax time. No separate claim needed—it’s automatic when you add the baby to your FTB.
Step-by-Step: How to Claim
Act fast: Claim within 52 weeks of the birth or adoption, but ideally sooner. 1 Here’s how:
- Log into myGov and link Centrelink.
- Claim Family Tax Benefit and add your child’s details.
- Upload proof like birth certificate.
- Submit—Centrelink reviews and pays if eligible.
Pre-claim up to three months before due date. 18 Call 136 150 for help.
Special Notes: Twins, Taxes, and Tips
For twins, get the supplement for one and Parental Leave Pay for the other to maximize support. 8 It’s all non-taxable, so no worries at tax time. Tip: Update your details promptly to avoid delays. If income changes, report it to keep payments accurate.
FAQs
What is the Centrelink newborn payment amount for 2025?
Up to $2,735.05 for your first child, including $683 upfront and $2,052.05 supplement over 13 weeks.
Who is eligible for the newborn upfront payment?
Australian residents claiming FTB Part A, not on Parental Leave Pay for the same child, and meeting income/assets tests.
Can I get the newborn supplement for twins?
Yes, typically for one twin if getting Parental Leave Pay for the other.
When should I claim the Centrelink newborn payment?
Within 52 weeks of birth or adoption, but pre-claim up to three months before.
Is the newborn payment taxable in Australia?
No, it’s completely tax-free and doesn’t count as income.