Raising kids in Australia isn’t cheap—think school supplies, groceries, and ever-rising rent. That’s where Centrelink’s Family Tax Benefit (FTB) steps in, offering a financial lifeline for families in 2025. With updated rates for FTB Part A and Part B, parents can get up to $288.82 fortnightly to help cover essentials. Here’s your guide to the new rates, who qualifies, when payments arrive, and how to apply.
What Are FTB Part A and Part B?
The Family Tax Benefit comes in two parts, each designed to support families differently:
- FTB Part A: Helps low-to-middle-income families based on household income and number of kids.
- FTB Part B: Targets single parents or couples with one main earner, focusing on younger children.
These payments ease the burden of daily costs like school fees, transport, or internet bills, ensuring kids aren’t shortchanged by tight budgets.
New FTB Rates for 2025
Starting August 2025, FTB payments have increased to match rising living costs. Here’s the breakdown:
2025 FTB Payment Rates
| Payment Type | Child Age Range | Fortnightly Amount |
|---|---|---|
| FTB Part A | 16–19 (in school) | $288.82 |
| FTB Part A (approved care org) | Any age (under care) | $71.26 |
| FTB Part B | 0–4 years | $188.86 |
| FTB Part B | 5–18 years | $131.74 |
Payments are made fortnightly, directly to your bank account, with an optional end-of-year FTB Supplement after income reconciliation.
Who Qualifies for FTB in 2025?
Eligibility depends on your family’s situation. Here’s what you need:
FTB Part A Eligibility
- Be an Australian resident.
- Have a dependent child under 18 (or 19 if in secondary school).
- Meet income tests (thresholds vary by family size and number of children).
FTB Part B Eligibility
- Be a single parent with a child under 18, or a couple with one main income and a child under 12.
- Meet residency and income requirements.
Unsure if you qualify? Use Services Australia’s online eligibility checker at www.servicesaustralia.gov.au.
When Do Payments Arrive?
FTB payments start in August 2025 and continue fortnightly, typically on Tuesdays or Thursdays. You can choose a lump sum at the end of the financial year, but most families prefer fortnightly payments for budgeting ease.
Check your MyGov account or the Express Plus Centrelink app for exact dates, as public holidays may cause minor shifts.
How to Apply for FTB
Applying for FTB is straightforward:
- Confirm Eligibility: Check residency, income, and child details.
- Gather Documents: Prepare income statements, ID, and proof of your child’s school enrollment.
- Apply Online: Submit your claim via MyGov or Services Australia’s website.
- Upload Documents: Provide supporting files securely through MyGov.
- Monitor Approval: Payments start once approved, with updates in MyGov.
Current recipients get the new rates automatically. Keep your details—bank account, income, and family changes—updated to avoid delays or overpayments.
Why FTB Matters in 2025
FTB isn’t just extra cash; it’s a buffer against rising costs in cities like Sydney or rural areas alike. For a single parent, $188.86 fortnightly for a toddler means sports fees or school supplies are covered. For couples, $288.82 for a teen in school helps with transport or internet bills. These payments ensure kids can thrive, regardless of family income.
The program also boosts local economies, as families spend on essentials, supporting businesses.
Tips to Maximize Your FTB
To get the most from FTB:
- Report Changes Fast: Update Centrelink on income, address, or school changes to avoid overpayments.
- Choose Payment Style: Pick fortnightly or lump-sum payments based on your budgeting needs.
- Check Supplements: Confirm eligibility for the FTB Supplement, paid after tax time.
- Stay Informed: Monitor updates via www.servicesaustralia.gov.au or MyGov.
Being proactive keeps your payments smooth and stress-free.
FAQs About Centrelink’s 2025 FTB Part A & B
What are the 2025 FTB payment rates?
FTB Part A offers up to $288.82 fortnightly for kids 16–19 in school; Part B provides $188.86 for kids 0–4 or $131.74 for ages 5–18.
Who qualifies for FTB Part A and Part B?
Part A is for low-to-middle-income families with kids under 18 (or 19 in school). Part B is for single parents or one-income couples with kids under 18 (or 12 for couples).
When do FTB payments start in 2025?
Payments begin August 2025, paid fortnightly or as a lump sum after the financial year.
Do I need to apply for FTB?
Current recipients get updated rates automatically; new applicants apply via MyGov or Services Australia.
Are FTB payments taxable?
No, FTB payments are tax-free, but you must report family income accurately at tax time.