Welcoming a new baby into your family brings immense joy, but let’s face it – it also brings significant expenses. From hospital bills to baby furniture, clothing, formula, and endless supplies of nappies, the costs can quickly add up.
Fortunately, Australian families have access to financial support through Centrelink’s $667 Baby Bonus, officially known as the Newborn Upfront Payment.
This one-time, tax-free payment is designed to help ease the financial burden during those crucial first weeks with your little one.
But that’s not all – eligible families can also receive the Newborn Supplement, which provides up to an additional $2,003.82 over 13 weeks for your first child.
Together, these benefits can provide over $2,600 in support when you need it most. Think of it as the government’s way of sending a financial care package to help you navigate the early days of parenthood.
Understanding Centrelink’s $667 Baby Bonus in 2025
The Newborn Upfront Payment (commonly called the Baby Bonus) is a one-off payment of $667 per child that helps cover the immediate costs of welcoming a new baby or adopted child into your family.
Unlike some government payments that are considered taxable income, this payment is completely tax-free, meaning you get to keep the full amount to use as needed.
This payment works hand-in-hand with the Newborn Supplement, which provides ongoing financial support for up to 13 weeks after your baby’s birth or adoption.
For your first child, you could receive up to $2,003.82 over this period, while for subsequent children, the maximum amount is $668.85.
It’s like having a financial safety net during those sleep-deprived early weeks when many parents are away from work and adjusting to life with a newborn.
Whether you need to stock up on baby essentials, cover medical expenses, or simply bridge the gap during parental leave, these payments provide valuable support during a transformative time in your family’s life.
Who Qualifies for the $667 Baby Bonus in 2025?
Not everyone automatically qualifies for the Newborn Upfront Payment and Supplement. To be eligible, you need to meet several key criteria:
- Family Tax Benefit Part A Eligibility: This is the foundational requirement. You must qualify for Family Tax Benefit Part A, which is based on factors like your family income, number of children, and residency status. Families can earn up to $80,000-$100,000+ and still receive partial FTB Part A.
- Not Receiving Parental Leave Pay: You cannot receive both Parental Leave Pay and the Baby Bonus for the same child. You’ll need to choose which payment method better suits your circumstances.
- Primary Carer Status: You must be the main carer of the newborn or newly adopted child. This applies to biological parents, adoptive parents, and in some cases, grandparents, kinship carers, or foster carers in long-term placements.
- Residency Requirements: Both you and your child must be Australian residents. You must also meet Centrelink’s residence rules, which include holding a permanent visa or a protected special category visa.
Think of these eligibility criteria as a checklist – you need to tick all these boxes to qualify for the payment.
If you’re unsure about your eligibility, the Services Australia Payment and Service Finder tool can help you determine which benefits you qualify for based on your specific situation.
Payment Amounts and Timing
Understanding exactly what you’ll receive and when can help you plan your finances more effectively. Here’s a breakdown of the payment structure:
| Payment Type | Amount | Timing | Payment Method |
|---|---|---|---|
| Newborn Upfront Payment | $667 per child | Usually within 14 days of confirmation | Lump sum |
| Newborn Supplement (First Child) | Up to $2,003.82 | Spread over 13 weeks | Fortnightly or annual lump sum |
| Newborn Supplement (Subsequent Children) | Up to $668.85 | Spread over 13 weeks | Fortnightly or annual lump sum |
| Multiple Births | $667 × number of children | Same as a single birth | Lump sum |
For the Newborn Supplement, you have two payment options:
- Fortnightly payments integrated with your Family Tax Benefit Part A payments
- Annual lump sum received after lodging your tax return
The choice between these options depends on your financial needs and preferences. If you need regular support to manage ongoing baby expenses, fortnightly payments might be ideal.
If you prefer to receive a larger sum at once, perhaps to make a significant purchase, the lump sum option might be better.
How to Apply for the $667 Baby Bonus
Applying for the Baby Bonus is relatively straightforward, especially if you’re already receiving Family Tax Benefit payments. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you navigate the process:
- Set Up or Access Your myGov Account: First, you’ll need to log in to myGov and ensure your Centrelink account is linked. If you don’t have a myGov account yet, you’ll need to create one.
- Prepare Required Documents: Have your child’s birth certificate or hospital record ready, along with proof of parentage or guardianship if applicable. You’ll also need your Tax File Number and proof of income.
- Apply for Family Tax Benefit Part A: Through your myGov account, submit a claim for FTB Part A. This automatically triggers an assessment for the Baby Bonus and Supplement.
- Choose Your Payment Method: Select whether you want to receive the Newborn Supplement as fortnightly installments or as an annual lump sum. Also, ensure your direct deposit details are up to date for quicker payments.
Pro tip: You can apply up to three months before your baby’s due date to avoid delays after the birth. It’s like packing your hospital bag early – being prepared means one less thing to worry about when the big day arrives.
Payment Dates for April 2025
If you’re expecting a baby in April 2025 or have recently welcomed a new addition to your family, you’ll want to know when to expect your payment.
According to the Centrelink payment schedule for 2025, benefit payouts for April 2025 are scheduled between the 3rd and 9th of the month.
However, the exact timing of your Newborn Upfront Payment depends on when your application is processed and approved. Generally, you can expect to receive the payment within 14 days of your eligibility being confirmed.
The Newborn Supplement will then follow according to the regular payment schedule for Family Tax Benefit Part A.
To ensure you receive your payments as quickly as possible:
- Apply early (up to three months before your due date)
- Ensure all required documentation is submitted promptly
- Keep your bank account details up to date in your myGov account
- Respond quickly to any requests for additional information
Conclusion
The $667 Baby Bonus (Newborn Upfront Payment) and Newborn Supplement represent valuable financial support for Australian families welcoming new children in 2025.
With up to $2,670.82 available for your first child and $1,335.85 for subsequent children, these payments can significantly ease the financial pressure during those crucial early weeks and months.
By understanding your eligibility, preparing your application in advance, and knowing when to expect your payments, you can ensure you receive this important support when you need it most.
Remember that while the Baby Bonus and Parental Leave Pay cannot be claimed for the same child, you should evaluate which option provides better support for your specific circumstances.
Whether you’re a first-time parent or growing your family, these Centrelink payments acknowledge the important work of raising children and provide practical assistance during a transformative time in your life.
After all, every little bit helps when you’re navigating the rewarding but challenging journey of parenthood.
FAQs About Centrelink’s $667 Baby Bonus
1. Can I receive both the Baby Bonus and Parental Leave Pay for my child? No, you cannot receive both the Newborn Upfront Payment/Supplement and Parental Leave Pay for the same child. You’ll need to choose which payment method better suits your circumstances based on your employment situation and financial needs.
2. What happens if I have twins or triplets? Great news! You’ll receive the $667 Newborn Upfront Payment for each child. For twins, that’s $1,334, and for triplets, $2,001. You’ll also receive the Newborn Supplement for each child, potentially providing significant additional support for multiple births.
3. Is the Baby Bonus payment considered taxable income? No, both the Newborn Upfront Payment and the Newborn Supplement are non-taxable. You don’t need to declare them as income on your tax return, and they won’t affect your tax obligations.
4. How long do I have to apply after my baby is born? You should apply within 12 months of your child’s birth or adoption. However, it’s best to apply as soon as possible – ideally before the birth – to ensure you receive your payments without delay.
5. What if my application for Family Tax Benefit Part A is rejected? If your FTB Part A application is rejected, you won’t be eligible for the Newborn Upfront Payment or Supplement. However, you may still qualify for other support like Parental Leave Pay, depending on your circumstances. It’s worth checking with Services Australia about alternative payment options.
The $63 Million Bicentennial Quarter and 4 More Coins That’s Worth is $589K – Check Your Change!