Welcoming a new baby is a momentous event filled with joy and excitement, but it also brings new financial responsibilities. To help ease the financial burden of parenthood, Centrelink offers a $667 Newborn Payment in 2025, which consists of both a Newborn Upfront Payment and a Newborn Supplement.
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This detailed guide outlines everything you need to know about Centrelink’s Newborn Payment—including eligibility criteria, how to apply, and when you can expect your payments to arrive.
What Is the Centrelink $667 Newborn Payment?
The Centrelink Newborn Payment is a government initiative designed to support Australian families during the early stages of parenthood by providing financial relief. This payment is divided into two components:
- Newborn Upfront Payment: A one-time payment of $667 per child, intended to help with the initial expenses associated with having a baby, such as baby clothes, nappies, and gear.
- Newborn Supplement: An ongoing non-taxable payment that lasts for up to 13 weeks, with different payment amounts depending on whether the child is the first or a subsequent baby in the family.
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Key Details of the Centrelink $667 Newborn Payment
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Newborn Upfront Payment | One-time payment of $667 per child. |
| Newborn Supplement | Ongoing payment for up to 13 weeks. Maximum: $2,003.82 for the first child, $668.85 for subsequent children. |
| Eligibility Criteria | Must be eligible for Family Tax Benefit (FTB) Part A, not receiving Parental Leave Pay for the same child, and the primary carer of a newborn or recently adopted child. |
| Payment Distribution | Payments align with your FTB Part A payment method (either fortnightly or lump sum). |
| Claim Process | Claims can be initiated up to 3 months before the expected birth or adoption date through Centrelink or myGov. |
Breaking Down the Newborn Payments
1. Newborn Upfront Payment
The Newborn Upfront Payment is a one-off non-taxable payment of $667 per child. This payment is designed to assist families with the initial financial demands that come with raising a newborn.
Common Expenses Covered:
- Baby clothes and gear
- Nappies and formula
- A cot, stroller, and other baby essentials
2. Newborn Supplement
The Newborn Supplement is an ongoing non-taxable payment that lasts for up to 13 weeks. It provides families with additional support during the early stages of their baby’s life. The payment amount varies depending on whether the newborn is the first child or a subsequent child.
- For the first child: You can receive up to $2,003.82 over 13 weeks.
- For subsequent children: You can receive up to $668.85 over 13 weeks.
This supplement is distributed alongside your Family Tax Benefit Part A, either as fortnightly payments or as a lump sum at the end of the financial year.
Eligibility Requirements for the Centrelink Newborn Payment
To qualify for the $667 Centrelink Newborn Payment, you must meet specific criteria. These include:
- Eligibility for Family Tax Benefit (FTB) Part A
- Primary carer of a newborn or recently adopted child
- Not receiving Parental Leave Pay for the same child
- You must also register your child’s birth or submit a birth registration application to claim these payments.
How to Apply for the Centrelink $667 Newborn Payment
Applying for the Centrelink Newborn Payment is straightforward when you know the steps. Here’s what you need to do:
Steps to Apply:
- Create an account or log into myGov linked to Centrelink.
- Choose your preferred payment method—either fortnightly payments or a lump sum payment at the end of the financial year.
- Submit all necessary documentation, including proof of your child’s birth or adoption.
- Centrelink will assess your eligibility based on your FTB Part A details.
Important Tip:
You can start the application up to 3 months before the expected birth or adoption date, so be sure to plan ahead.
Payment Schedule and Methods
You will receive your Centrelink Newborn Payment in one of two ways:
- Fortnightly Payments: This method helps you cover ongoing baby-related expenses throughout the first months.
- Lump Sum: For those who prefer to receive all their payment at once, Centrelink will pay this amount at the end of the financial year.
You can switch between these methods at any time by updating your preferences via your Centrelink online account.
Additional Financial Support Available
Apart from the Newborn Upfront Payment and Newborn Supplement, you may also qualify for other forms of financial assistance, including:
- Family Tax Benefit Part A & B
- Parental Leave Pay (if not already claiming the Newborn Payment)
- Parenting Payment (income-tested)
- Rent Assistance
- Child Care Subsidy
These supports can further help your family manage costs during this exciting yet challenging time.
Real-Life Example of the Centrelink $667 Newborn Payment
Sarah and James, a young couple from Melbourne, welcomed their first baby in February 2025. Sarah took unpaid leave from her job, and they weren’t eligible for Parental Leave Pay. They successfully applied for Family Tax Benefit Part A and received the following financial support:
- $667 for the Newborn Upfront Payment
- $2,003.82 for the Newborn Supplement over 13 weeks
This financial assistance helped Sarah and James manage the initial expenses like formula, a cot, and other baby essentials. The Centrelink payments were a crucial part of their early days of parenthood.
Final Thoughts on the Centrelink $667 Newborn Payment 2025
The Centrelink $667 Newborn Payment is a vital lifeline for Australian families welcoming a new baby. Understanding the eligibility criteria, application process, and payment methods will ensure you receive the financial assistance you need during this special time.
With the Newborn Upfront Payment and the ongoing Newborn Supplement, families can rest easier knowing that Centrelink is providing support when it’s needed most. Don’t forget to explore other forms of financial aid like Family Tax Benefit, Rent Assistance, and Child Care Subsidy to maximize your benefits.
For new parents, this financial relief helps ease the burden of early parenting, allowing you to focus on your growing family rather than worrying about finances.