If you are expecting to bring a new baby into your family in 2025 or have just had a child, you might be eligible for Centrelink’s $667 Baby Bonus. Properly named the Newborn Upfront Payment, this lump sum, non-taxable payment is intended to assist families with the upfront financial costs of raising a child.
With the rising expense of childcare, diapers, formula, and clothing, this assistance can be a welcome respite when a significant life transition occurs.
In addition to the Baby Bonus, qualifying families will also be eligible for the Newborn Supplement, which provides up to $2,003.82 over a period of 13 weeks.
This additional benefit assists families in the initial months following the birth or adoption of a child, when many parents have extra costs while out of work.
Let’s demystify who is eligible, how much you can get, how to apply, and how to get the most out of the benefits you are entitled to.
Overview of Centrelink’s $667 Baby Bonus in 2025
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Payment Name | Newborn Upfront Payment (Baby Bonus) |
| Amount | $667 per child (one-time, non-taxable) |
| Supplement | Newborn Supplement up to $2,003.82 over 13 weeks |
| Eligibility | Must qualify for Family Tax Benefit Part A and not receive Parental Leave Pay for the same child |
| Payment Frequency | One-off payment; Supplement paid over 13 weeks (fortnightly or lump sum) |
| Application Method | Via myGov or in person at Centrelink |
| Official Source | Services Australia |
What Is Centrelink’s $667 Baby Bonus?
The Newborn Upfront Payment, more popularly known as the $667 Baby Bonus, is a single lump sum payment of assistance to families upon having a new baby, either by birth or adoption. The payment assists with the up-front costs associated with having a newborn child, such as:
- Hospital and delivery fees
- Car seats, prams, and strollers
- Baby clothes and necessities
- Cots, bassinets, and other equipment
- Health check-ups and medical costs
The Baby Bonus is non-means tested, meaning it is not affected by your income or assets, but eligibility for Family Tax Benefit Part A is a requirement. Importantly, this payment is non-taxable, so it will not need to be reported on your tax return and does not affect other income-based entitlements.
This payment is in addition to Parental Leave Pay, which is a wage replacement for employed parents taking leave to care for their baby. You are not eligible to receive both Parental Leave Pay and the Baby Bonus for the one child.
What Is the Newborn Supplement?
The Newborn Supplement is an extra, temporary payment that benefits families in the initial period following a birth or adoption. It pays up to $2,003.82 over 13 weeks for the first child or up to $668.85 for other children.
The Supplement supports families during a pivotal period when one or both parents could be away from work or having higher household expenses.
Supplement Payment Breakdown
- First Child: Up to $2,003.82 over 13 weeks
- Subsequent Children: Up to $668.85 over 13 weeks
The amount you get paid depends on:
- Eligibility for Family Tax Benefit Part A
- Family income
- Family type (single parent or couple)
The Newborn Supplement is usually paid fortnightly. Alternatively, you can choose to receive it as part of your lump sum annual Family Tax Benefit after you have lodged your tax return.
Who Is Eligible for the Baby Bonus in 2025?
To be eligible for the Baby Bonus, you must satisfy the following conditions:
1. Eligibility for Family Tax Benefit Part A
You should be eligible for Family Tax Benefit Part A, which assists with the expenses of raising children. Eligibility is based on:
- Family income
- Number and age of dependent children
- Residency status
Families can earn $80,000 to $100,000+ and still qualify for a part Family Tax Benefit Part A. The more you earn, the less you will get.
2. Not Getting Parental Leave Pay
If you or your partner are getting Parental Leave Pay, you won’t be eligible for the Baby Bonus or Newborn Supplement for the same child. These two schemes are separate and are for different family situations.
3. Primary Carer Requirement
As a condition, you need to be the principal carer for the newborn baby or newly adopted child. You are eligible as:
- Biological parents
- Adoptive parents
- Grandparents or kinship carers, in some cases
- Foster carers in long-term arrangements
4. Residency Rules
The claimant and child must both live in Australia as residents. Centrelink’s residence rules also must be met on your part and include having a permanent visa or a protected special category visa.
How to Apply for the Baby Bonus
It is easy to apply for the Baby Bonus if you follow these steps:
1. Set Up a MyGov Account
- Sign up or sign in to myGov.
- Link your Centrelink account to access online services.
2. Prepare Required Documents
- Child’s birth certificate or hospital record.
- Proof of parentage or guardianship (if applicable).
- Tax File Number and proof of income.
3. Apply for Family Tax Benefit Part A
- Sign in to Centrelink through myGov and make a claim for Family Tax Benefit Part A.
- This will cause an automatic assessment of the Baby Bonus and Newborn Supplement.
4. Your Payment Option
- Either fortnightly or lump sum.
- Arrange for direct deposit so payments arrive more quickly.
Tip: You can make a claim three months before the birth of your baby to keep delays to a minimum when your baby arrives.
Multiple Birth Payments (Twins, Triplets, etc.)
If you are having more than one child, Centrelink provides supplementary help for each child separately:
- Baby Bonus: $667 per child.
- Newborn Supplement: Up to $2,003.82 per child (for first children).
Example
- Twins: $667 x 2 = $1,334 + up to $4,007.64 in Newborn Supplement.
- Triplets: $667 x 3 = $2,001 + up to $6,011.46 in Supplement.
This way, families with multiple children are provided with the financial support they need.
When Will You Get the Payments?
Payment Schedules
- Newborn Upfront Payment: Generally made within 14 days of determining the birth and eligibility.
- Newborn Supplement: Paid fortnightly for 13 weeks (or as a lump sum with your tax refund).
- If you have fortnightly payments, the supplement is added to your Family Tax Benefit Part A payment schedule.
The $667 Baby Bonus and Newborn Supplement offer critical financial assistance to families with newborns or newly adopted children in 2025. These payments assist in paying the initial costs of raising a child, from hospital bills to baby essentials.
Knowing the eligibility criteria, collecting required documents, and applying early will help you maximize this valuable government assistance.
FAQs:
Can I apply for the Baby Bonus if I am on Parental Leave Pay?
No, you cannot receive both the Baby Bonus and Parental Leave Pay for the same child.
Is the Baby Bonus taxable?
No, the Baby Bonus is non-taxable and will not affect other income-related entitlements.
How long does it take to receive the Baby Bonus payment?
The Newborn Upfront Payment is usually paid within 14 days after eligibility is confirmed.