The Family Tax Benefit (FTB) is a cornerstone of Australia’s social welfare system, designed to alleviate the financial burden of raising children for eligible families. Administered by Services Australia through Centrelink, FTB is divided into two parts: Part A and Part B, each targeting specific family circumstances. As of June 2025, payments ranging from $71 to $222 have been widely discussed, though the actual amounts depend on various factors such as family income, the number of children, and their ages. This article provides a comprehensive overview of the FTB payments for June 2025, detailing eligibility criteria, payment rates, application processes, and the payout schedule. By exploring these elements, families can better understand how to access this financial support and plan their budgets effectively.
What is the Family Tax Benefit (FTB)?
The Family Tax Benefit is a government initiative aimed at supporting Australian families with the costs associated with raising children. It is structured into two components:
-
FTB Part A: A per-child payment that assists families based on their adjusted taxable income, the number of children, and their ages. It is designed to help with the general costs of raising children.
-
FTB Part B: A per-family payment that provides additional support to single-parent families, caregivers, or couples where one partner has a primary income. This part focuses on families with specific financial dynamics.
The FTB is not a fixed payment; its amount varies based on individual family circumstances, making it essential for applicants to understand the eligibility criteria and how payments are calculated.
Eligibility Criteria for FTB in June 2025
To qualify for FTB payments in June 2025, families must meet specific requirements set by Services Australia. The eligibility criteria for both FTB Part A and Part B are outlined below.
FTB Part A Eligibility
To be eligible for FTB Part A, applicants must satisfy the following conditions:
-
Child Requirements:
-
The child must be under 19 years old and fully dependent on the caregiver.
-
For children aged 16 to 19, they must be full-time secondary students and not receiving other government benefits, such as Youth Allowance.
-
The child must meet early childhood immunization requirements and, if turning 4, undergo a health check.
-
-
Care Requirements:
-
The parent or guardian must care for the child at least 35% of the time.
-
If care is shared (e.g., between separated parents), the percentage of care determines the payment rate.
-
-
Income Test:
-
The family’s adjusted taxable income must be below certain thresholds. For 2024-25, families with incomes up to $62,634 may receive the maximum rate, while incomes between $62,634 and $111,398 result in a reduced rate by 20 cents per dollar over $62,634. Incomes above $111,398 reduce payments further by 30 cents per dollar until reaching zero.
-
The income limit varies based on the number and ages of children. Families with three or more children may receive more than the base rate even at higher income levels.
-
-
Residency Requirements:
-
Both the applicant and the child must live in Australia and meet residency criteria. New arrivals may face a one-year waiting period.
-
Payments may be affected if the family has lived outside Australia.
-
-
Maintenance Action Test:
-
If a child is from a previous relationship, parents must meet the Maintenance Action Test to receive more than the base rate. Child support received may reduce FTB Part A payments.
-
FTB Part B Eligibility
FTB Part B targets families with specific financial structures, such as single parents or couples with one main income. Eligibility includes:
-
Family Structure:
-
Single parents or caregivers raising a child.
-
Couples where one partner earns the primary income, and the other has limited or no income.
-
-
Child Requirements:
-
The youngest child must be under 19, with payments varying based on their age (higher for children aged 0-4, lower for those 5-18).
-
-
Income Test:
-
The primary earner’s income is assessed, with a threshold typically around $80,000 for eligibility. The secondary earner’s income (if applicable) is also considered but has a lower impact.
-
-
Residency:
-
Similar to Part A, both the applicant and child must reside in Australia and meet residency rules.
-
-
Exclusions:
-
Families receiving Parental Leave Pay are not eligible for FTB Part B.
-
Payment Rates for June 2025
The widely cited $71 to $222 range for FTB payments in June 2025 is an estimate and not entirely accurate, as the actual amount depends on individual circumstances. Below are the key details on payment rates based on available information for the 2024-25 financial year, which will likely apply to June 2025 unless updated by Services Australia.
FTB Part A Payment Rates
-
Maximum Rates (per fortnight, per child):
-
$288.82 for children aged 16-19 who meet study requirements.
-
$71.26 for children aged 0-19 in an approved care organization.
-
$68.46 base rate for each child, though actual payments may be lower based on income.
-
-
Income Impact:
-
Families with adjusted taxable income of $62,634 or less receive the maximum rate.
-
Payments reduce by 20 cents per dollar for incomes between $62,634 and $111,398.
-
Above $111,398, payments reduce by 30 cents per dollar until reaching zero.
-
-
FTB Part A Supplement:
-
An annual payment of up to $938.05 per child for the 2025-26 financial year, paid after balancing payments at the end of the financial year (June 30, 2025). Eligibility requires an adjusted taxable income of $80,000 or less.
-
FTB Part B Payment Rates
-
Maximum Rates (per fortnight, per family):
-
$188.86 when the youngest child is 0-4 years old.
-
$131.74 when the youngest child is 5-18 years old.
-
-
Income Impact:
-
Payments depend on the primary earner’s income and the age of the youngest child. Higher incomes reduce the payment amount, with a cutoff around $80,000 for most families.
-
Clarification on the $71-$222 Range
The $71-$222 range mentioned in various sources is misleading, as it does not reflect the exact payment amounts. For instance, the base rate for FTB Part A is $68.46 per child per fortnight, while the maximum can reach $288.82 for eligible children. FTB Part B ranges from $131.74 to $188.86 per family. The actual amount a family receives is calculated based on their specific circumstances, including income, number of children, and care percentage. Families can use the Services Australia Payment and Service Finder or their MyGov account to estimate their payments accurately.
Payout Schedule for June 2025
FTB payments are typically made fortnightly, though families can opt for a lump-sum payment at the end of the financial year to avoid overpayments. For June 2025, the exact payout dates are not specified in advance, as Services Australia adjusts schedules monthly. However, based on standard practice:
-
Fortnightly Payments: Payments are deposited directly into the recipient’s bank account every two weeks. Families should check their MyGov account for specific dates, which are typically aligned with Centrelink’s payment calendar.
-
Lump-Sum Payments: The FTB Part A Supplement and any reconciled payments are paid after the financial year ends (June 30, 2025), once tax returns are lodged or Services Australia is notified if no tax return is required.
-
June 2025 Expectations: Payments are expected to commence in early June, with direct deposits arriving on schedule and paper checks (if applicable) taking a few additional days. Beneficiaries should monitor their MyGov account for updates.
To ensure timely payments, families must keep their income estimates and personal details updated with Centrelink. Any changes in family circumstances, such as income, marital status, or care arrangements, should be reported promptly to avoid overpayments or underpayments.
How to Apply for FTB Payments
Applying for FTB in June 2025 is straightforward, primarily through a MyGov account linked to Centrelink. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
-
Create or Access a MyGov Account:
-
Visit my.gov.au and create an account or log in if you already have one.
-
Link your account to Centrelink for access to FTB applications.
-
-
Prepare Required Documents:
-
Gather digitally scanned documents, including:
-
Child’s birth certificate.
-
Proof of residency (e.g., utility bill or lease agreement).
-
Income details (e.g., payslips, tax returns).
-
Marital status and care arrangement details.
-
Proof of immunizations and health checks for children.
-
-
-
Submit the Application:
-
Navigate to the FTB application section on the Centrelink portal via MyGov.
-
Fill out personal and family details, including income estimates and care percentages.
-
Upload required documents and submit the application.
-
-
Monitor Application Status:
-
Check your MyGov account for updates on your application status.
-
Respond to any requests for additional information from Centrelink.
-
-
Update Details as Needed:
-
Report any changes in income, family structure, or care arrangements promptly to ensure accurate payments.
-
Applications should be submitted well in advance of June 2025 to ensure timely processing. Families new to Australia may need to wait one year before applying, depending on residency status.
Common Misconceptions and Clarifications
Several misconceptions about the FTB payments for June 2025 have emerged, particularly regarding the $71-$222 range. Here are key clarifications:
-
Misleading Payment Range: The $71-$222 range is an estimate and not a fixed amount. Actual payments vary based on income, child age, and family structure. For example, the base rate for FTB Part A is $68.46 per child per fortnight, while maximum rates can exceed $288.82.
-
Payment Dates: Exact dates for June 2025 are not fixed in advance. Families should rely on Services Australia’s official updates via MyGov.
-
Eligibility Confusion: Some sources suggest a universal $80,000 income cap, but this applies primarily to FTB Part B and the FTB Part A Supplement. FTB Part A has a more complex income test with varying thresholds.
-
Stimulus Check Confusion: References to “FTB stimulus checks” (e.g., $6,000 payments) are unrelated to Australia’s FTB and pertain to California’s Franchise Tax Board programs. These should not be confused with Centrelink’s FTB.
Families are encouraged to consult Services Australia’s official website (www.servicesaustralia.gov.au) for accurate information and to avoid relying on unofficial sources that may propagate misinformation.
Impact of FTB on Australian Families
The FTB program plays a critical role in supporting Australian families, particularly those with low to moderate incomes. By providing regular financial assistance, FTB helps cover essential costs such as food, education, healthcare, and childcare. For single parents and families with one primary earner, FTB Part B offers a lifeline to manage financial pressures. The program’s flexibility, with options for fortnightly or lump-sum payments, allows families to tailor support to their needs.
In 2024-25, the FTB Part A Supplement of up to $938.05 per child provides additional relief, particularly for families with incomes below $80,000. This supplement, paid annually, can help with significant expenses like school fees or medical costs. The program’s focus on immunization and health checks also promotes child welfare, ensuring families meet essential health requirements.
Challenges and Considerations
While FTB is a valuable resource, families may face challenges:
-
Income Reporting: Accurate income estimates are crucial to avoid overpayments, which must be repaid. Families should update their income details regularly.
-
Complex Calculations: The variability of payment amounts can be confusing. Using Services Australia’s calculators can help clarify expected payments.
-
Application Delays: Processing times can vary, so early applications are recommended.
-
Child Support Impact: Child support payments reduce FTB Part A amounts, which may affect budgeting for separated families.
Families should also be aware of the need to lodge tax returns by June 30, 2025, or notify Services Australia if not required, to ensure timely balancing of payments.
Looking Ahead
The Family Tax Benefit remains a vital support mechanism for Australian families in June 2025, offering financial relief through FTB Part A and Part B. While the $71-$222 range has been cited, actual payments depend on family income, the number and ages of children, and care arrangements. By meeting eligibility criteria, applying through MyGov, and keeping details updated, families can access this support efficiently. The payout schedule, primarily fortnightly with an annual supplement, provides flexibility tonefits are a critical lifeline for many Australian families, offering financial relief to manage the costs of raising children. By understanding the eligibility criteria, payment structures, and application process, families can maximize their benefits and plan effectively for June 2025 and beyond. For the most accurate and up-to-date information, always refer to Services Australia’s official resources.