Expecting a baby is an exciting journey, and the Australian Government offers various financial supports to help ease the transition. Understanding the payments to claim when having a baby in Australia available and how to claim them can ensure you receive the assistance you’re entitled to.
Key Payments to claim when having a baby in Australia for New and Expecting Parents
1. Parental Leave Pay (PLP)
Parental Leave Pay provides financial support to eligible working parents taking time off work to care for a newborn or recently adopted child. As of July 1, 2025, the maximum duration is 24 weeks, paid at the national minimum wage. Eligibility criteria include meeting income, work, and residency requirements.
2. Newborn Upfront Payment and Newborn Supplement
These payments assist with the costs of caring for a newborn or newly adopted child:
- Newborn Upfront Payment: A lump sum payment of $667 per child.
- Newborn Supplement: An increase to your Family Tax Benefit Part A, paid for up to 13 weeks. The amount depends on your family’s income and the number of children you have.
To be eligible, you must care for a baby or child who’s recently come into your care, be eligible for Family Tax Benefit Part A, and not be receiving Parental Leave Pay for the same child.
3. Family Tax Benefit (FTB)
FTB helps with the cost of raising children. It consists of two parts:
- FTB Part A: Paid per child, depending on your family’s circumstances.
- FTB Part B: Paid per family, providing extra help to families that need it.
Eligibility for these payments depends on factors like income, the number of children, and care arrangements.
4. Parenting Payment
This payment is for the primary carer of a young child. To qualify, you must meet principal carer rules for a child under 14 if you’re single or under 6 if you’re partnered, and meet income and assets tests.
When to Start Your Payments to claim when having a baby in Australia
You can begin your claim for Parental Leave Pay or Family Tax Benefit up to 3 months before your baby is due. Starting early ensures timely processing and access to funds when needed.
How to Claim
All claims can be made through your myGov account linked to Centrelink. If you don’t have a myGov account, you can create one and link it to Centrelink to access and manage your claims.
Additional Support
If your child was stillborn or died shortly after birth, additional support is available. Services Australia provides information on what support you may be eligible for in such circumstances.
Tips for a Smooth Claim Process
- Start Early: Initiate your claims up to 3 months before your baby’s due date.
- Gather Documentation: Ensure you have all necessary documents, such as proof of identity and income details.
- Link Your Accounts: Connect your myGov account to Centrelink for streamlined access.
- Stay Informed: Regularly check for updates on your claims and respond promptly to any requests for additional information.
