As of 2025, Australian parents who give birth to or adopt a child can now receive one of Australia’s important family assistance payments, the $2,052 Newborn Supplement. This payment is issued via Centrelink and supports families financially during the critical initial weeks after welcoming a new child.
What Is the Newborn Supplement?
The Newborn Supplement, which is part of the Family Tax Benefit (FTB) Part A, increases the ongoing payment boost for eligible families for up to 13 weeks after the birth or adoption of a child. For the first child, the maximum amount is $2,052.05, with subsequent children receiving a reduced amount of approximately $685. There is payee specific payment scaling based on the family income. The supplement specifically targets the rising childcare costs, including nappies and formula, to income capped families and single-earner families.
Important Dates to Remember
Claiming the Family Tax Benefit and Newborn Supplement can be done up to three months before the expected date of delivery or adoption. This gives parents the ability to ensure the finances are allocated prior to the child’s first day. Birth registration should also be done promptly to minimize the chances of delays. Birth proof in the form of a birth certificate or documentation from a midwife or a doctor’s statement is required to complete claims. For families who do not pre-claim, claims can also be done after the birth.
How to Apply for the Newborn Support
Applying is easy for those already receiving Family Tax Benefit Part A. Generally, parents do not have to make a separate claim for the Newborn Supplement if there is an active FTB claim, because Centrelink performs an automatic eligibility check. New parents who do not have a Centrelink Customer Reference Number (CRN) need to register, link their account to Centrelink, and submit a claim through myGov. All relevant documents can be uploaded electronically which expedites processing. Parents receiving Parental Leave Pay for the same child will not be eligible for the Newborn Supplement.
This payment remains a central aspect of government assistance that can be offered to families, providing timely financial assistance to Australians when they require it the most. Parents are advised to prepare their documents in advance and submit them to facilitate receiving assistance as needed. In case of needing assistance with the application, the Centrelink multilingual phone service is available to assist families throughout the process.
