Raising a family in Australia can be financially demanding, with costs ranging from education and healthcare to daily living expenses. To support families in managing these challenges, the Australian Government provides the Family Tax Benefit (FTB). This assistance program is divided into two components: Part A, which offers general support for raising children, and Part B, designed for single-parent families or households with a single income earner. This guide explains the eligibility criteria, benefits, and application process for both parts of the Family Tax Benefit.
What Is the Family Tax Benefit?
The Family Tax Benefit is a government initiative designed to help families with the cost of raising children. Administered by Services Australia, the benefit is split into two parts:
- Family Tax Benefit Part A: A payment per child based on the family’s income and the child’s age.
- Family Tax Benefit Part B: Additional support for single parents or families with one primary income earner.
Families can choose to receive payments fortnightly or as a lump sum at the end of the financial year.
Family Tax Benefit Part A
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for Part A, families must meet the following requirements:
- Dependent Children:
- Have children under 15 years of age, or
- Children aged 16-19 enrolled in full-time secondary education.
- Income Test:
- Families earning up to $80,000 annually are eligible for the full benefit.
- Payments reduce by 20 cents for every dollar above this threshold and further decline after $115,000.
- Residency Requirements:
- Must be an Australian citizen or hold a permanent residency visa.
- Immunization and Health Checks:
- Children must meet immunization and health check requirements for families to qualify.
Payment Rates for Part A
- For children aged 0-12, families may receive up to $222.04 per fortnight.
- For children aged 13-19, the maximum payment is $288.82 per fortnight.
- Additional benefits like Rent Assistance and the Energy Supplement may also apply.
Example
A family with two children—one aged 8 and the other 15—earning $75,000 annually is eligible for the maximum FTB Part A payment for both children.
Family Tax Benefit Part B
Eligibility Criteria
Part B focuses on providing extra financial support for single-income families or single-parent households. Key eligibility factors include:
- Dependent Children:
- Couples qualify if their youngest child is under 13 years old.
- Single parents qualify if their youngest child is under 18 years old and enrolled in full-time secondary education.
- Income Test:
- Payments are reduced for families where the secondary earner’s income exceeds $117,194 annually.
- Residency Requirements:
- Must meet similar residency rules as Part A.
Payment Rates for Part B
- Families with children aged 0-4 years may receive up to $188.86 per fortnight.
- For children aged 5-18 years, the payment is $131.74 per fortnight.
This payment is especially beneficial for single parents or couples where one parent stays at home to care for children.
How to Apply for Family Tax Benefit
Applying for FTB is a simple process handled through Services Australia.
Steps to Apply
- Create a myGov Account:
- If you don’t already have an account, register at
- Link to Centrelink:
- Connect your myGov account to Centrelink to access the application portal.
- Submit Your Application:
- Complete the online claim form, providing details about your family structure, income, and children.
- Upload Supporting Documents:
- Proof of income, residency status, and your child’s birth certificate may be required.
- Await Confirmation:
- Centrelink will review your application and notify you of the outcome, usually within a few weeks.
For assistance, families can contact the Families Line at Services Australia.
1. Can both parents claim the Family Tax Benefit?
No, only one parent can claim the Family Tax Benefit, even in cases of shared custody.
2. Is there an income limit for Family Tax Benefit Part B?
Yes, families where the secondary earner earns more than $117,194 annually are not eligible for Part B.
3. What happens if my income changes during the year?
If your income changes, update your estimates with Services Australia. Payments will be adjusted accordingly to avoid overpayment or underpayment.
4. Can I receive both Part A and Part B simultaneously?
Yes, many families qualify for both benefits depending on their income and family structure.
5. Do I need to lodge a tax return to receive FTB payments?
Yes, you must lodge your tax return or notify Services Australia if you are not required to lodge one. This ensures you receive any end-of-year supplements.