If you’re expecting twins in Australia, navigating Centrelink benefits may feel overwhelming. Centrelink offers specific financial assistance, including the Newborn Upfront Payment and Newborn Supplement, to help ease some costs for new parents.
This article explains these benefits, eligibility criteria, and application processes for parents of twins, as well as addresses the limitations surrounding the Multiple Birth Allowance.
Newborn Upfront Payment
The Newborn Upfront Payment is a one-time lump sum provided to eligible families when a new child is born or adopted. This non-taxable benefit, designed to help cover the immediate expenses of a newborn, is available per child, including twins.
Payment Amount
- Amount: $667 per child, paid once.
- Per Child Basis: For twins, this amounts to $1,334, as each child qualifies separately.
This upfront payment can provide a significant financial boost during the early days of parenthood, helping with essentials like baby supplies and immediate medical expenses.
Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for the Newborn Upfront Payment, families must meet the following:
- Family Tax Benefit (FTB) Part A Eligibility: This income-tested benefit requires families to qualify for FTB Part A.
- Care for a Newborn or Recently Adopted Child: The benefit is only available to families with a newly born or recently adopted child.
- Parental Leave Pay Limitation: Parents cannot receive both the Newborn Upfront Payment and Parental Leave Pay for the same child. However, parents of twins can apply for Parental Leave Pay for one twin and the Newborn Upfront Payment for the other.
Newborn Supplement
In addition to the upfront payment, the Newborn Supplement offers ongoing financial support for up to 13 weeks. This payment is especially valuable for families welcoming twins, as it provides extended financial support based on the family’s income and the number of children.
Payment Structure
The Newborn Supplement provides the following:
- Maximum Payment: Up to $2,003.82 per child over 13 weeks, for families within the income threshold.
- Threshold for Full Benefit: Families with a combined annual income below $100,900 qualify for the maximum payment per child.
If a family has more than one child under 13 weeks, the Newborn Supplement for additional children is capped at $668.85 each.
| Benefit Type | Payment Amount (per child) | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| Newborn Upfront Payment | $667 (one-time) | Immediate after birth |
| Newborn Supplement | Up to $2,003.82 | Over 13 weeks |
Eligibility Requirements
To qualify for the Newborn Supplement, parents must:
- Be Eligible for FTB Part A: Like the Newborn Upfront Payment, eligibility requires meeting the criteria for FTB Part A.
- Not Claim Parental Leave Pay for Same Child: Parents can apply for Parental Leave Pay for one child and the Newborn Supplement for the other in the case of twins.
- Meet Income Thresholds: Payments vary according to family income, with maximum benefits for lower-income families.
Why Parents of Twins Don’t Qualify for the Multiple Birth Allowance
The Multiple Birth Allowance is a Centrelink benefit provided to families of triplets, quadruplets, or higher multiples. This allowance does not extend to families with twins, which has led to criticism from advocacy groups like the Australian Multiple Birth Association (AMBA).
Many argue that parents of twins face similar financial and logistical challenges as those with triplets, yet they are ineligible for this additional assistance. However, Centrelink limits the allowance to higher-order multiples, leaving twin families without this added support.
How to Apply for the Newborn Upfront Payment and Newborn Supplement
Applying for these Centrelink benefits is straightforward and can be completed online through the myGov platform. Here’s a quick guide:
- Create or Log into myGov Account: If you don’t already have a myGov account, register on the myGov website. If you have an account, log in.
- Link Centrelink to myGov: Ensure that your myGov account is linked to Centrelink so you can access family assistance options.
- Complete the FTB Part A Application: Start by applying for Family Tax Benefit Part A, which is necessary for eligibility. Centrelink will automatically assess your application for the Newborn Upfront Payment and Newborn Supplement once this is complete.
- Submit Proof of Birth: After the birth of your twins, submit proof of birth to Centrelink. You can upload this through the Centrelink Express Plus App, using the proof of birth form from your hospital or midwife.
Making the Most of Centrelink Benefits for Twins
Here are a few tips to maximize Centrelink benefits for parents of twins:
- Apply Early: Start the application process as soon as possible to avoid delays in receiving payments.
- Use Parental Leave Pay Strategically: If eligible, consider claiming Parental Leave Pay for one child and the Newborn Upfront Payment for the other to maximize your benefits.
- Stay Informed on Income Thresholds: Keep track of your family’s income, as this affects the amount you can receive for the Newborn Supplement.
- Provide Documentation Promptly: Submit all necessary documents, including proof of birth, as soon as possible to avoid any delays in benefit processing.
Bringing twins into the world brings added financial and logistical challenges, but understanding and applying for Centrelink’s Newborn Upfront Payment and Supplement can help ease some of the burdens.
By following the steps above, eligible parents can ensure they receive the financial support they’re entitled to, providing a smoother start to family life.
