Welcoming a baby is exciting but also comes with extra financial pressure. To support families, the Australian Government offers a Centrelink $948 Payment for New Parents. This one-off lump sum provides quick financial relief during the early weeks of a child’s arrival, helping cover hospital bills, baby essentials, or household costs while parents adjust to their new routine.
What Is the Centrelink $948 Payment?
The $948 New Parent Payment is a tax-free, one-time benefit paid directly to eligible parents or guardians. Unlike ongoing welfare payments, this support comes as a single deposit, meaning families get the full amount upfront with no repayments required.
Key Features
- One-off lump sum of $948
- Paid directly into your nominated bank account
- Non-taxable and no repayment required
- Flexible use for baby or household expenses
Who Can Apply?
To be eligible for the $948 Centrelink payment, you must:
- Be the primary carer of the newborn (mother, father, or legal guardian)
- Be an Australian resident at the time of birth
- Apply as a single claimant per child (only one parent can claim)
- Provide official proof, such as a birth certificate or hospital confirmation
- Meet income or asset limits, where applicable
Families with twins or multiple births may qualify for additional support.
How to Apply – Step by Step
Applying is simple if you have the right documents ready.
- Log in to your myGov account (linked to Centrelink).
- Go to Centrelink → Parental Payments.
- Select the $948 New Parent Payment.
- Complete the application form.
- Upload the required documents.
- Submit and wait for processing.
If online access is difficult, you can apply at your nearest Centrelink office.
Documents Needed
- Proof of identity (passport, driver’s licence, Medicare card)
- Child’s birth certificate or hospital record
- Proof of residency
- Bank details and income information (if required)
Payment Method
Once approved, the full $948 is transferred as a lump sum into your nominated bank account. There are no fortnightly installments — you receive the entire amount at once.
Why This Payment Matters
The first few weeks with a newborn bring both joy and stress. The $948 payment helps families manage urgent expenses like:
- Hospital and medical bills
- Nappies, formula, and baby clothes
- Everyday household costs during parental leave
Even though raising a baby costs far more long term, this immediate relief can ease the transition.
Quick Benefits Table
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Payment Amount | $948 (one-off) |
| Taxable? | No |
| Repayment Needed? | No |
| Paid As | Lump sum |
| Application Method | Online via myGov or Centrelink office |
Common Issues & Tips
- Incomplete documents → Double-check before submitting.
- myGov errors → Visit a Centrelink office if online fails.
- Processing delays → Apply early and ensure banking details are correct.
Conclusion
The Centrelink $948 Payment for New Parents is a valuable helping hand during one of life’s biggest changes. While it won’t cover every expense, it provides immediate support so families can focus on bonding with their newborn instead of worrying about bills. Parents are encouraged to apply as soon as possible to avoid delays and secure the payment quickly.
FAQs
Do I need to repay the $948 payment?
No, it’s a grant, not a loan.
How long does approval take?
Usually a few weeks, but it may take longer if documents are missing.
Can both parents apply for the same child?
No, only one parent or guardian can claim per child.
Is this payment separate from Paid Parental Leave?
Yes, it is a different benefit and can be received alongside other eligible payments.
How will I get the money?
It will be deposited directly into your nominated bank account once approved.