If you’re expecting twins in Australia, understanding Centrelink’s financial benefits can help ease some of the costs associated with having multiple babies at once.
While there’s no specific allowance for twins, several Centrelink payments, including the Newborn Upfront Payment and Newborn Supplement, can support you during this time. Here’s a complete guide on eligibility, how to apply, and tips for maximizing these benefits.
| Benefit | Details | Eligibility |
|---|---|---|
| Newborn Upfront Payment | $667 lump sum per child | Eligibility for Family Tax Benefit Part A |
| Newborn Supplement | Up to $2,003.82 per child over 13 weeks | Family income and eligibility for Family Tax Benefit Part A |
| Parental Leave Pay | Up to 18 weeks of paid leave | Residency and income criteria |
| Multiple Birth Allowance | Not applicable for twins; for triplets or higher multiples | Family Tax Benefit Part A, care of triplets or higher multiples |
What is the Newborn Upfront Payment?
The Newborn Upfront Payment is a one-time, tax-free lump sum of $667 per child, designed to assist families with the immediate expenses associated with a new baby.
This payment is particularly helpful for parents of twins since it’s paid per child, providing $1,334 for two children.
Newborn Supplement: Additional Support for New Parents
Alongside the upfront payment, eligible families can receive the Newborn Supplement. This supplement is paid over 13 weeks, with a maximum amount of $2,003.82 per child for twins, helping cover early childcare costs and essentials.
Eligibility for the Newborn Supplement is income-tested, based on the Family Tax Benefit (FTB) Part A criteria, which limits family income to $100,900 (for families with one child).
Eligibility Criteria for Parents of Twins
To qualify for the Newborn Upfront Payment and Newborn Supplement, parents must meet specific conditions:
- Family Tax Benefit (FTB) Part A: Eligibility for FTB Part A is required. This is income-tested, so families must fall within the specified income threshold to qualify.
- Care of a Newborn or Recently Adopted Child: Parents must be caring for a newborn or newly adopted child in their family.
- No Parental Leave Pay Overlap: Parents cannot receive both the Newborn Upfront Payment and Parental Leave Pay for the same child. However, if you’re having twins, it is possible to claim Parental Leave Pay for one child and the Newborn Upfront Payment for the other, allowing you to benefit from both programs.
Why Twins Are Excluded from the Multiple Birth Allowance
The Multiple Birth Allowance is an additional benefit for families with triplets or higher-order multiples, but it’s not available for twins.
Advocacy groups, such as the Australian Multiple Birth Association (AMBA), have argued that families with twins face similar challenges to those with triplets, and the exclusion feels unfair. However, as of now, this allowance remains limited to parents of triplets or higher.
How to Apply for Centrelink Benefits for Newborns
Applying for Centrelink benefits, including the Newborn Upfront Payment and Newborn Supplement, is relatively simple and can be done online through MyGov:
- Log in to MyGov: If you don’t already have a MyGov account, create one. Ensure your Centrelink account is linked to MyGov to access all relevant services.
- Complete the Family Tax Benefit (FTB) Application: Apply for FTB Part A through Centrelink’s Families section. Once you submit this application, Centrelink will assess your eligibility for both the Newborn Upfront Payment and Newborn Supplement automatically.
- Submit Proof of Birth: After your twins are born, submit proof of birth to Centrelink. This can be done through the Centrelink Express Plus App, where you can upload a photo of the proof of birth form provided by the hospital or midwife.
Parental Leave Pay Option for Twins
While you cannot claim both the Newborn Upfront Payment and Parental Leave Pay for the same child, parents of twins can split the benefits.
For instance, you may choose to claim Parental Leave Pay for one twin and the Newborn Upfront Payment for the other, allowing you to take advantage of both types of support.
Practical Tips for Maximizing Centrelink Benefits
With twins, managing financial assistance from Centrelink can feel complex. Here are some tips to ensure you receive the full range of benefits available:
- Apply Early: To avoid any delays, complete the Family Tax Benefit Part A application before your twins are born. This will enable Centrelink to process your eligibility for the Newborn Upfront Payment and Supplement quickly.
- Budget for Newborn Essentials: While the payments can help cover initial expenses, planning a budget for essentials like diapers, clothing, and baby equipment will help you make the most of the support.
- Keep Track of Your Income: Since both the Family Tax Benefit and Newborn Supplement are income-tested, track your family income to ensure continued eligibility and avoid any unexpected adjustments in benefits.
With Centrelink’s support, parents of twins can access several essential benefits, though the lack of a specific allowance for twins continues to raise concerns among families and advocacy groups.
By understanding these benefits and applying early, parents can ease some of the financial burdens of raising twins.
