Family Tax Benefit Part A
A per-child payment based on your family's combined income. Paid fortnightly or as a lump sum after the financial year.
| Child Age | Maximum Rate (per fortnight) | Base Rate (per fortnight) |
|---|---|---|
| 0–12 years | $235.48 | $75.60 |
| 13–15 years | $306.46 | $75.60 |
| 16–19 years (in approved study/training) | $306.46 | $75.60 |
Part A Income Test
| Family Income | Effect |
|---|---|
| Under ~$69,131 | Maximum rate |
| $69,131 – ~$123,078 | Reduces by 20c per $1 above $69,131 — down to base rate |
| ~$123,078 – cut-off | Base rate ($75.60/fn per child), reduces by 30c per $1 |
| Above cut-off | $0 — cut-off depends on number of children |
The income cut-off depends on how many children you have. For 1 child, FTB Part A cuts out at approximately $129,648 family income. For 2 children, it's higher.
Family Tax Benefit Part B
A per-family payment (not per child) based on the lower earner's income — designed for single-income families and single parents.
| Youngest Child | Maximum Rate (per fortnight) |
|---|---|
| Under 5 years | $200.34 |
| 5–18 years | $139.86 |
Part B Income Test
Part B is tested on the lower earner's income only (not combined family income):
| Lower Earner's Income | Effect |
|---|---|
| Under ~$7,154/year | Maximum rate |
| $7,154 – ~$35,661 (youngest under 5) | Reduces by 20c per $1 |
| $7,154 – ~$27,777 (youngest 5–13) | Reduces by 20c per $1 |
| Above ~$35,661 (youngest under 5) or ~$27,777 (youngest 5–13) | $0 |
Single parents and single carers are income tested too, but on a single threshold rather than the two-part test above: you get the maximum rate if your adjusted taxable income is $124,327 or less, and nothing above it.
For partnered families, the primary (higher) earner must also earn $124,327 or less — above that the family gets no Part B regardless of the lower earner's income. Partnered families can only get Part B while the youngest child is under 13.
End-of-Year Supplements
| Supplement | Amount | When Paid |
|---|---|---|
| FTB Part A Supplement | Up to $970.90 per child (family adjusted taxable income of $80,000 or less) | After lodging tax return |
| FTB Part B Supplement | Up to $478.15 per family | After lodging tax return |
Important: Both partners must lodge their tax return (or confirm they don't need to lodge) by 30 June of the following year. If you don't, your supplement is withheld and your FTB balance may not be reconciled — potentially creating a debt.
How to Apply
- Log into myGov → Centrelink
- Select "Make a claim" → "Family Tax Benefit"
- Provide your family income estimate for the current year
- Provide children's details (name, date of birth, school attendance for 16+)
- Choose payment frequency (fortnightly or lump sum)
Tip: If your income varies (casual work, self-employed), consider receiving FTB as a lump sum after the financial year. This avoids debts from overestimating/underestimating income during the year.
Fortnightly vs Lump Sum
| Fortnightly | Lump Sum (End of Year) | |
|---|---|---|
| Pros | Cash flow now — money in your account every 2 weeks | No risk of debt — calculated on actual income |
| Cons | Risk of overpayment debt if income exceeds estimate | Wait until after lodging tax return (July onwards) |
| Best for | Stable salary — predictable income | Variable income — casual, freelance, self-employed |
Stacking FTB with Other Payments
FTB can be received alongside: Parenting Payment (Single or Partnered), Child Care Subsidy, Rent Assistance (if receiving more than base rate FTB Part A), and Double Orphan Pension. These are all separate payments — receiving one doesn't prevent the others.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much is Family Tax Benefit?
Part A: up to $235.48/fortnight per child (aged 0–12) or $306.46 (13–19). Part B: up to $200.34/fortnight per family (youngest under 5). Both are income tested and reduce as income rises.
What's the income limit for FTB?
Part A: maximum rate up to ~$69,131 family income, base rate up to ~$123,078+. Part B: tested on the lower earner's income — nil above ~$35,661. Single parents are income tested on a single threshold: maximum rate at $124,327 or less, nil above it.
Do I need to lodge a tax return for FTB?
Yes. Both partners must lodge (or confirm exemption) by 30 June of the following year. If you don't, your FTB supplement is withheld and your balance may not be reconciled.
Can I get FTB and Parenting Payment?
Yes. They're separate payments. Many families receive FTB Part A, FTB Part B, Parenting Payment, Rent Assistance, and Child Care Subsidy simultaneously.
What's the FTB supplement?
An end-of-year bonus: up to $970.90 per child (Part A) and $478.15 per family (Part B). Paid after you lodge your tax return and your actual income is confirmed.