If you’re preparing to welcome a new baby into your family in 2025 or have recently had a child, you may be eligible for Centrelink’s $667 Baby Bonus. Officially called the Newborn Upfront Payment, this one-time, non-taxable payment is designed to help families with the initial financial burdens of raising a child.
With the increasing costs of childcare, diapers, formula, and clothing, this support can provide relief during a major life change.
Along with the Baby Bonus, eligible families may also qualify for the Newborn Supplement, which offers up to $2,003.82 over a 13-week period.
This supplementary benefit supports families during the first few months after the birth or adoption of a child, a time when many parents face additional expenses while being away from work.
Let’s break down who qualifies, how much you can receive, the application process, and how to maximize the benefits available to you.
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, commonly referred to as the $667 Baby Bonus, is a one-off financial assistance payment for families when they have a new child, either through birth or adoption. This payment helps cover the initial expenses involved with raising a newborn, including:
- Hospital and delivery costs
- Car seats, prams, and strollers
- Baby clothing and essential supplies
- Cots, bassinets, and other furniture
- Health check-ups and medical expenses
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 separate from Parental Leave Pay, which provides wage replacement for working parents who take time off to care for their child. You cannot receive both the Baby Bonus and Parental Leave Pay for the same child.
What Is the Newborn Supplement?
The Newborn Supplement is an additional, temporary payment designed to help families in the early stages after a birth or adoption. It provides up to $2,003.82 over 13 weeks for the first child, or up to $668.85 for subsequent children.
The Supplement assists families during a critical period when one or both parents may be out of work or facing increased household costs.
Supplement Payment Breakdown
- First Child: Up to $2,003.82 over 13 weeks
- Subsequent Children: Up to $668.85 over 13 weeks
The payment amount depends on:
- Eligibility for Family Tax Benefit Part A
- Family income
- Family structure (single parent or couple)
The Newborn Supplement is typically paid in fortnightly installments. Alternatively, you can opt to receive it as part of your annual Family Tax Benefit lump sum after lodging your tax return.
Who Is Eligible for the Baby Bonus in 2025?
To qualify for the Baby Bonus, you need to meet the following criteria:
1. Eligibility for Family Tax Benefit Part A
You must be eligible for Family Tax Benefit Part A, which helps cover the costs of raising children. Eligibility depends on factors such as:
- Family income
- Number and age of dependent children
- Residency status
Families can earn between $80,000 to $100,000+ and still receive a partial Family Tax Benefit Part A. However, the higher your income, the smaller the payment.
2. Not Receiving Parental Leave Pay
If you or your partner are receiving Parental Leave Pay, you will not be eligible for the Baby Bonus or Newborn Supplement for the same child. These two programs are distinct and cater to different family circumstances.
3. Primary Carer Requirement
To be eligible, you must be the primary carer of the newborn or newly adopted child. This applies to:
- Biological parents
- Adoptive parents
- Grandparents or kinship carers in certain cases
- Foster carers with long-term placements
4. Residency Rules
Both the child and the claimant must be Australian residents. You must also comply with Centrelink’s residency rules, which include holding a permanent visa or a protected special category visa.
How to Apply for the Baby Bonus
Applying for the Baby Bonus is simple when you follow these steps:
1. Set Up a MyGov Account
- Register or log 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
- Log in to Centrelink via myGov and submit a claim for Family Tax Benefit Part A.
- This will automatically trigger an assessment for the Baby Bonus and Newborn Supplement.
4. Choose Your Payment Method
- Select either fortnightly payments or a lump sum.
- Set up direct deposit to receive payments faster.
Pro Tip: You can apply up to three months before your baby’s due date to ensure you avoid delays once the baby is born.
Payments for Multiple Births (Twins, Triplets, etc.)
If you are expecting more than one child, Centrelink offers additional support for each baby individually:
- 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 ensures that families with multiple children receive the necessary financial assistance.
When Will You Receive the Payments?
Payment Timings
- Newborn Upfront Payment: Usually issued within 14 days after confirming the birth and eligibility.
- Newborn Supplement: Paid fortnightly over 13 weeks (or as a lump sum with your tax return).
If you opt for fortnightly payments, the supplement is integrated into your Family Tax Benefit Part A payment schedule.
The $667 Baby Bonus and Newborn Supplement provide essential financial relief for families with newborns or newly adopted children in 2025. These payments help cover the early costs of raising a child, from hospital fees to baby supplies.
Understanding the eligibility requirements, gathering necessary documents, and applying early will ensure that you make the most of this valuable government support.
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.
Can I apply for the Baby Bonus if I’m having twins?
Yes, the Baby Bonus and Newborn Supplement are provided for each eligible child in the case of multiple births.
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