Australia’s Family Tax Benefit helps cover rising family costs in 2025 with indexed rates for Part A and Part B, paid fortnightly or as a lump sum after tax time . FTB is available to eligible families who care for a dependent child at least 35% of the time and meet income tests .
What FTB covers
FTB assists with everyday essentials like school supplies, transport, and internet, and it can be paid as regular fortnightly amounts to help with budgeting throughout the year . Services Australia reconciles payments after the financial year to ensure families receive the correct amount based on actual income .
The two parts explained
- FTB Part A: For low to middle income families, based on household income, dependent children, and care percentage, with students up to 19 if in full‑time secondary study and not receiving other payments like Youth Allowance .
- FTB Part B: For single parents or couples with one primary earner, focusing on younger children, with eligibility based on family situation and income tests .
2025 rate updates
FTB rates index with cost of living and are paid fortnightly to a nominated bank account, with optional end‑of‑year supplements subject to income reconciliation and eligibility . Services Australia provides the latest payable amounts and applies adjustments automatically for current recipients when indexation occurs .
Who qualifies in 2025
- Be an Australian resident responsible for a dependent child, or a full‑time secondary student aged 16 to 19 who isn’t on another payment, and provide care at least 35% of the time .
- Meet income tests, which vary with family size, number of children, and ages, and ensure details remain current for accurate assessment and to avoid overpayments .
When payments arrive
FTB is generally paid fortnightly and visible in online accounts; timing can shift for public holidays, and families can choose a lump sum after the financial year if preferred . Exact dates and amounts appear in the linked Centrelink account and app once a claim is in place and entitlement is calculated .
How to apply step‑by‑step
- Confirm eligibility based on residency, child age or study, care percentage, and income tests before starting a claim .
- Prepare documents: identification, income details, bank account information, and proof of a child’s secondary school enrollment if claiming for ages 16 to 19 .
- Apply online via Services Australia with a linked account, submit supporting documents, and monitor messages for requested updates or verification .
- End‑of‑year balancing compares estimated to actual income, which can result in top‑ups or debts, so keep income estimates accurate during the year .
Tips to maximise FTB
- Update changes quickly: income, address, care arrangements, or schooling to prevent overpayments and ensure correct rates throughout the year .
- Choose the right payment style: fortnightly for cash‑flow stability, or lump sum after tax time if that suits budgeting better .
- Watch for supplements: end‑of‑year supplements are only confirmed after reconciliation and depend on eligibility and income tests .
Common scenarios
- Single parent with a child under school age may qualify for Part B on top of Part A if income tests are met and care percentage is sufficient .
- Couple with one main earner and a younger child may qualify for Part B, while Part A depends on combined income and the number and ages of children in care .
Staying current
Services Australia updates FTB settings routinely, and recipients should check their online account for notices, upcoming payment dates, and any requests for information or documents . Families can also access information in multiple languages and get phone assistance if needed for claims and updates .