Bringing a baby home is exciting, emotional, and costly. To help with those early expenses, the Australian Government offers the Centrelink Newborn Payment 2025. This one-off support gives first-time parents up to $2,735 through a mix of upfront and fortnightly payments.
Here’s everything you need to know – from eligibility rules to how to claim.
What Is the Newborn Payment?
The Newborn Payment is part of the Family Tax Benefit scheme. It’s designed to help families with the immediate costs of raising a baby, whether through birth or adoption.
- Available to Australian residents
- Paid for your first child at the full rate
- Non-taxable – it won’t affect your tax return or other Centrelink payments
Payment Breakdown 2025
The benefit is split into two parts:
| Situation | Upfront Rate | Supplement Rate (over 13 weeks) | Total Payment |
|---|---|---|---|
| First child | $683 | $2,052.05 | $2,735.05 |
| Other children | $683 | $685.23 | $1,368.23 |
If you have twins, you can claim the Newborn Supplement for one child and Parental Leave Pay for the other.
Purpose of the Payment
Raising a baby comes with new expenses – prams, car seats, nappies, clothing, and medical needs. The payment aims to:
- Ease the financial pressure in the first few months
- Provide a safety net for low and middle-income families
- Ensure every child starts life with essential support
Who Is Eligible?
You may qualify for the $2,735 Newborn Payment 2025 if you:
- Are living in Australia
- Have given birth or adopted a child
- Are the primary carer of the child
- Meet Centrelink’s income and assets test
- Are not already receiving Parental Leave Pay for the same child
Note: If your partner is already receiving the payment, you can’t claim it again.
How the Payment Works
- Upfront payment: $683 paid directly into your bank account
- Supplement: Added to your Family Tax Benefit Part A over 13 weeks
This staggered structure ensures families receive both an initial boost and ongoing support.
How to Claim
You need to apply within 3 months of your baby’s birth or adoption.
Steps to Apply:
- Log in to your myGov account linked with Centrelink.
- Go to the Family section and start your Family Tax Benefit claim.
- Add your baby’s birth or adoption details.
- Submit your claim online.
Payments are usually deposited directly into your bank account once approved.
Quick Tips
- Apply as soon as possible to avoid delays
- Have your child’s birth or adoption certificate ready
- Double-check your eligibility before submitting
- Use myGov for faster processing
FAQs
1. Who can get the Newborn Payment?
Parents who give birth or adopt a child, meet residency rules, and pass the income/asset test.
2. Is the payment taxable?
No, it’s completely tax-free.
3. Can I claim it with Parental Leave Pay?
Not for the same child. You must choose one.
4. What happens if I have twins?
You can claim the Newborn Supplement for one child and Parental Leave Pay for the other.
5. What’s the deadline to apply?
You must claim within 3 months of the birth or adoption.
Final Thoughts
The $2,735 Centrelink Newborn Payment 2025 is a valuable helping hand for first-time parents. While it won’t cover every cost, it provides a solid foundation during one of life’s biggest changes.
If you’re welcoming a new baby this year, check your eligibility and apply early to make sure you don’t miss out.