Welcoming a new baby is exciting, emotional, and, let’s be honest, a little overwhelming. Along with the joy comes the practical side of things — hospital visits, nappies, clothing, and those countless small expenses you never thought about until now. That’s where government support steps in. In 2025, Centrelink continues to provide financial help to families through the Newborn Payment, which includes both the Newborn Upfront Payment and the Newborn Supplement. Together, these benefits can add up to a significant amount — and many people refer to the combined total as being around $2,735.
But here’s the thing: not everyone is eligible for the full amount, and the payment can vary depending on your circumstances. So let’s break it down, step by step, in plain and practical language.
What is the Centrelink Newborn Payment?
The Newborn Payment isn’t a single lump sum with one name stamped on it. Instead, it’s actually two connected supports:
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Newborn Upfront Payment – a one-off lump sum to give you a financial boost right after your baby is born or comes into your care.
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Newborn Supplement – an additional payment that is spread out over several weeks, giving you ongoing support during those crucial first months.
Put simply, it’s a way of giving families immediate relief plus a short-term cushion while adjusting to life with a newborn.
Who Can Get It? (Eligibility Explained)
Eligibility sounds formal, but it’s not too complicated once you know the main rules. To qualify, you generally need to:
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Be eligible for Family Tax Benefit Part A.
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Have a newborn child, or a child comes into your care, such as through adoption.
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Not receive Parental Leave Pay for the same child (because you can’t double dip).
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Meet the residency requirements — meaning you’re an Australian resident and caring for the child in Australia.
On the flip side, if you already get certain other payments for your baby, you may not qualify for the Newborn Payment. And yes, if you have twins or multiple births, the payment is usually adjusted to reflect that.
How Much Can You Get?
Now for the part that everyone really wants to know — the dollars. The official payment is split into two parts, but when combined, people often estimate it to be around $2,735. The reality is that the exact amount depends on your situation, especially whether it’s your first child or a subsequent child.
Here’s a breakdown:
| Payment Type | What It Is | Maximum Amount (2025) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Newborn Upfront Payment | One-off lump sum | $683 | Paid per child, tax-free |
| Newborn Supplement | Fortnightly payment for up to 13 weeks | Up to $1,369 (varies) | Depends on family income and number of children |
| Total for First Child | Combined Upfront + Supplement | Around $2,052 | Maximum possible if eligible for full rate |
| Total for Later Children | Combined Upfront + Supplement | Around $685 | Much lower if you already have children |
So where does the figure of $2,735 come from? Many people round up or include potential adjustments (like family tax benefits or indexation increases). For some families, if extra components are factored in, the combined value can look closer to that figure.
How to Claim the Newborn Payment
Honestly, this is the part that sometimes feels daunting, but it’s simpler than most people think. Here’s how you go about it:
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Prepare early – You can actually submit a claim up to three months before your baby is due. This way, once your child arrives, payments can begin without delay.
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Submit through Centrelink – You’ll need to apply for Family Tax Benefit, because the Newborn Payment is processed through that system. Once you apply, the newborn entitlements are automatically checked.
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Provide documents – You’ll need proof of birth or adoption, plus details about your income, partner, and residency status.
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Payment schedule – The lump sum (Newborn Upfront Payment) usually arrives quickly, while the Supplement is paid over the following weeks, usually in line with your Family Tax Benefit payments.
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Stay on top of changes – If your income, relationship status, or care arrangements change, it can affect your payment. Make sure to update Centrelink if anything shifts.
Key Details to Keep in Mind
Here are some important things families often overlook:
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Non-taxable support: Both the Newborn Upfront Payment and Supplement are tax-free. That means you don’t need to worry about reporting them as income at tax time.
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Parental Leave Pay vs Newborn Payment: You can’t get both for the same child. You’ll need to decide which option benefits your family more.
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Income affects the Supplement: The exact amount of the Newborn Supplement is means-tested, so higher-income families might receive less.
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Multiple births: If you have twins, triplets, or more, the amount is adjusted accordingly.
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Apply on time: Claims are time-sensitive. If you delay, you may lose part of your entitlement.
Why This Payment Matters
Let’s be real — babies are expensive. From formula and nappies to cribs and clothing, the costs pile up quickly. The Newborn Payment isn’t meant to cover everything, but it does provide a cushion that makes those early weeks a little easier. It’s especially helpful for first-time parents who often have to buy everything from scratch.
On the flip side, if you already have children and plenty of baby supplies, the support amount will be lower. Still, even a smaller payment can help ease the financial strain.
Final Thoughts
The Centrelink Newborn Payment 2025, often quoted as being worth around $2,735, is a crucial support for families welcoming a new child. While the actual maximum is usually closer to $2,052 for a first child, the figure varies depending on your situation, income, and whether you have other kids.
The key takeaway? Don’t just rely on the headline figure. Look carefully at your own eligibility, get your paperwork sorted, and claim early to avoid missing out. Because when your baby arrives, the last thing you want is added stress over finances.