$667 Centrelink Newborn Benefit Confirmed: The $667 Centrelink Newborn Benefit has been officially confirmed by the Australian Government, providing a welcome financial lifeline to families with newborns or newly adopted children. At a time when families are adjusting to the joy and challenges of a growing household, every dollar counts. This benefit is designed to offer a meaningful boost just when it’s needed most.
Whether you’re preparing for your first child or adding to your growing family, understanding this benefit is essential. In this in-depth, easy-to-follow guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know—from eligibility and application to payment dates and additional support options. We’ll break things down simply, with examples, FAQs, and real-life scenarios to help you make informed decisions.
$667 Centrelink Newborn Benefit Confirmed
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Payment Name | Newborn Upfront Payment (Centrelink) |
| Amount | $667 (one-time lump sum per child) |
| Additional Support | Newborn Supplement (up to $2,003.82 over 13 weeks for first child) |
| Eligibility | Must be eligible for Family Tax Benefit (FTB) Part A |
| Not Eligible If | Receiving Parental Leave Pay for the same child |
| Application Platform | Services Australia via myGov |
| Official Resource | Services Australia – Newborn Payments |
The $667 Centrelink Newborn Benefit is more than just a one-time payment—it’s a smart, targeted way to support families as they grow. With the addition of the Newborn Supplement, eligible families could receive over $2,600 per child, providing real financial relief during a crucial time.
Whether you’re a first-time parent, a grandparent raising grandchildren, or a social worker helping families access support, this guide empowers you with accurate, practical knowledge.
To avoid missing out, make sure to:
- Apply within 12 months of birth or adoption
- Ensure your Family Tax Benefit Part A application is accurate and up to date
What Is the $667 Centrelink Newborn Benefit?
The Newborn Upfront Payment is a one-time, tax-free payment of $667 that helps cover the upfront costs of caring for a newborn or newly adopted child. It is offered through Centrelink as part of the broader Family Tax Benefit Part A framework.
This financial aid can ease the initial burden of baby-related expenses, such as nappies, baby furniture, clothing, and formula. Importantly, this benefit is designed for families who may not meet the criteria for Paid Parental Leave, offering support regardless of employment status.
Unlike some benefits that require a recent work history, this payment is available to students, carers, and stay-at-home parents—anyone responsible for the daily care of a newborn. Plus, it won’t impact your eligibility for other payments like Parenting Payment or JobSeeker.
Who Can Get the Newborn Upfront Payment?
The criteria are clear and accessible. Here’s a breakdown:
You must:
- Be the primary carer of a newborn or recently adopted child.
- Be eligible for Family Tax Benefit (FTB) Part A.
- Submit your claim within 52 weeks of the child’s birth or adoption.
You cannot:
- Be receiving Paid Parental Leave for the same child.
Note: The payment is automatically assessed when you apply for FTB Part A. There’s no need to submit a separate claim.
To determine FTB Part A eligibility, Services Australia considers your income, residency status, and the number and ages of your children. You can use the Payment and Service Finder on servicesaustralia.gov.au to estimate your eligibility.
How Much Support Can You Receive?
There are two components:
1. Newborn Upfront Payment
- A one-time, non-taxable payment of $667 per child.
2. Newborn Supplement
- An additional fortnightly or lump sum payment.
- First child: Up to $2,003.82 paid over 13 weeks.
- Subsequent children: Up to $668.85 over 13 weeks.
These payments can be crucial during the early months, helping families cover child-related costs or offset lost income. Note that your exact supplement amount may be reduced depending on your family’s income level.
How to Apply for the Newborn Payment
The process is streamlined for ease:
Step 1: Set Up Your myGov Account
If you haven’t already, create a myGov account and link it to Centrelink.
Step 2: Claim Family Tax Benefit Part A
- Navigate to Payments and Claims.
- Select Make a Claim, then Family Assistance.
Step 3: Provide Required Documents
You may be asked to upload:
- Proof of your baby’s birth or adoption (hospital forms, adoption papers).
- Your tax file number.
- Information about your income and relationship status.
Step 4: Wait for Notification
Once submitted, your claim will be reviewed by Services Australia. If approved, the Newborn Upfront Payment and Supplement will be added to your Family Tax Benefit Part A schedule.
Real-Life Example: The Impact of the Centrelink Newborn Benefit
Let’s look at an example:
Meet Jasmine and Alex, young parents from Perth. Jasmine is a casual worker, and Alex is between jobs. They welcomed twins and applied for Family Tax Benefit through their myGov account. They weren’t eligible for Parental Leave Pay but received:
- $667 x 2 = $1,334 as a lump sum.
- Newborn Supplement: Approximately $2,003.82 each over 13 weeks.
This $5,300+ in total support helped them afford extra bassinets, medical costs, and newborn essentials. Without these payments, Jasmine says, they would have had to rely on credit cards.
Why the Newborn Payment Matters
A 2022 survey by Finder.com.au showed that 1 in 3 new parents in Australia experience financial stress within the first year. Babies come with numerous expenses, and even small payments can relieve stress and support healthier home environments.
According to the AMP.NATSEM Income and Wealth Report, raising a child to age 17 can cost over $280,000 in Australia. That’s why accessible, targeted payments like the Newborn Upfront Payment are vital.
This benefit also ensures inclusivity—supporting:
- Low-income families
- Carers and foster parents
- Students and unemployed parents
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FAQs About $667 Centrelink Newborn Benefit Confirmed
Can I get both Parental Leave Pay and the Newborn Upfront Payment?
No. If you’re receiving Paid Parental Leave for the same child, you cannot receive the Newborn Upfront Payment.
Is the Newborn Upfront Payment considered taxable income?
No. It’s completely non-taxable and doesn’t need to be reported in your tax return.
Is adoption included?
Yes. The benefit applies equally to biological and adopted children.
How long does it take to receive payment?
Once your FTB Part A claim is approved, payments usually begin within two weeks, depending on how you opted to receive them.
Can I apply after the child turns one?
No. You must apply within 52 weeks (1 year) of the child’s birth or adoption.
Do twins get double the benefit?
Yes! You receive $667 per child, so twins mean $1,334 plus the applicable supplement for each.
