The Australian Government, through Centrelink, provides the Family Tax Benefit (FTB) to assist eligible families in covering the costs of raising children.
The November 2024 payment of $288 per fortnight is a lifeline for families, supporting daily expenses such as education, childcare, and essential living costs. Let’s dive into the details of the program, eligibility criteria, and how families can claim their benefits.
Overview of the Family Tax Benefit
The Family Tax Benefit comprises two parts: Part A and Part B, each designed to cater to specific family needs:
- Part A: Supports families based on their income levels and the number of children.
- Part B: Specifically aids single-parent families or those with one primary earner and carer.
The $288 per fortnight payment is primarily for dependents aged 13-19 years, ensuring financial stability and meeting the developmental needs of teenagers.
| Benefit Details | Description |
|---|---|
| Proposed By | The Government of Australia |
| Administered By | Centrelink |
| Eligibility | Low-income families |
| Frequency | Fortnightly |
| Amount | $288 |
| Official Website | servicesaustralia.gov |
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for the Family Tax Benefit, applicants must meet specific requirements for Part A and Part B:
Part A Eligibility
- Care for dependents aged 0–19 years.
- Family taxable income falls between $65,189 and $115,997.
Part B Eligibility
- Single parents or primary caregivers of children under 13 years.
- Taxable income must not exceed $117,194.
General Requirements
- Must be an Australian resident.
- Dedicate at least 35% of their time to caregiving.
Payment Amounts
Payment amounts vary depending on the age of the child and the part of the benefit:
Part A Payment Amounts
| Age of Child | Fortnightly Payment |
|---|---|
| Below 19 years | $71.26 |
| 0–12 years | $222.04 |
| 13–19 years | $288.82 |
Part B Payment Amounts
| Age of Child | Fortnightly Payment |
|---|---|
| Below 4 years | $188.86 |
| 5–18 years | $131.74 |
Claiming the Family Tax Benefit
Eligible families can claim their benefit by following these steps:
- Visit the Services Australia website.
- Log into your myGov account and review eligibility criteria.
- Link your Centrelink account to myGov.
- Provide necessary details, including bank information, income, and personal data.
- Upload supporting documents, such as proof of income or caregiving responsibilities.
- Submit the application for review.
Deadlines for Claims
- Claims can be made up to 3 months prior to a child’s birth or adoption.
- Applications must be submitted within 52 weeks after the child’s birth or adoption to avoid missing out on payments.
Payment Schedule
The Family Tax Benefit is disbursed every 14 days, ensuring consistent financial support for eligible families.
This financial support from Centrelink is a vital tool for families, ensuring children’s health, education, and well-being. By following the outlined steps, eligible families can access their benefits with ease and confidence.
