Raising children is one of life’s greatest joys, but it can also be expensive. Between food, clothes, school supplies and child care, the costs add up fast. That’s why it helps to understand what government support is available to give your family a bit of breathing room.
In this guide, we break down the Family Tax Benefit (FTB) Parts A and B - what they are, who can get them, how much they pay, and how they work alongside the Child Care Subsidy (CCS). It’s everything you need to know in one easy-to-read place.
What Is the Family Tax Benefit?
Family Tax Benefit is a regular payment from the government that helps families with the cost of raising kids.
There are two types:
- FTB Part A - paid per child. It depends on your income, how many children you have, and how old they are.
- FTB Part B - paid per family. It’s extra help for single parents or families with just one income earner (for example, when one parent is at home or on parental leave).
Can I Get FTB and the Child Care Subsidy at the Same Time?
Yes, you absolutely can.
- Family Tax Benefit helps with everyday costs like food, bills and clothing.
- Child Care Subsidy helps reduce the fees you pay for early learning or long day care.
Plus, from January 2026, the new 3 Day Guarantee means that more families will be able to access up to three days of subsidised child care per week, even if they don’t meet the CCS activity test.
Who’s Eligible for the Family Tax Benefit?
You might qualify if:
✅ You have a child under 19
✅ You care for the child at least 35% of the time
✅ You meet Australian residency rules
✅ Your child is up-to-date with their immunisations
✅ Your income fits within the limits (see below)
How Much Can You Get? (2025-2026 Rates)
FTB Part A (per child, per fortnight):
- 0-12 years: $227.36
- 13-15 years: $295.82
- 16-19 years (in school): $295.82
FTB Part B (per family, per fortnight):
- Youngest child under 5: $193.34
- Youngest child 5-18: $134.96
Keep in mind: these are the maximum rates. What you get depends on your income and family situation.
Income Thresholds - What’s the Limit?
For FTB Part A:
- One child aged 0-12: payments start reducing after around $86,852
- Two kids under 13: payments taper off after approx. ~$106,982
- For many families, payments phase out around $118,771+
For FTB Part B:
- Single parents: can receive it if they earn under $100,007
- Couples: the lower-income earner can make up to $6,935 per year before the payment reduces. Payments stop completely around $34,438
Real-Life Family Examples
Here’s how it might play out for families just like yours:
Single mum, $45K income, one child in childcare
Gets both FTB A and B
Also gets CCS
Likely eligible for the 3 Day Guarantee in 2026
Couple, one parent on parental leave, $70K combined income
Gets both FTB A and B
Will get CCS once the baby starts childcare
Working couple, $100K combined income, two kids in childcare
Reduced FTB A
Not eligible for FTB B
Receives CCS to reduce childcare fees
Single mum, $150K income
Too high for FTB A or B
Still eligible for CCS (at a lower rate)
Will I Have to Pay Anything Back?
Because Family Tax Benefit is worked out at tax time, you might be asked to repay money if your income ends up being higher than what you estimated.
To avoid that stress:
- Keep your income estimate updated in your myGov account
- Review your details every few months
- Let Centrelink know if your job changes or your family situation shifts
Year-End Top-Ups (Supplements)
If you're eligible for FTB, you might also get an annual bonus:
- FTB A Supplement - up to $938.05 per child
- FTB B Supplement - up to $459.90 per family
These are paid after the financial year ends and your income is balanced.
Other Payments You Might Be Able to Get
Depending on your situation, you may also be eligible for:
- Paid Parental Leave
- Parenting Payment
- Rent Assistance
- Newborn Upfront Payment and Supplement
- Multiple Birth Allowance
- A Health Care Card (which helps with medication and doctor visits)
You can check all of these via the Services Australia website.
How Aussie Kindies Supports Families
We know that sorting out government support can be confusing. While we can’t apply on your behalf, our friendly team is always happy to:
- Help explain how FTB and CCS work together
- Provide any paperwork you need|
- Chat about the best enrolment pattern for your family and your budget
At Aussie Kindies, we believe child care should feel like an extension of your home - supportive, welcoming, and focused on what really matters: helping your little one thrive.
Quick Recap
✅ You can receive FTB A, FTB B, and CCS
✅ Your income and family setup will affect how much you get
✅ Keep your info updated to avoid overpayments
✅ Annual supplements can offer extra help
✅ The 3 Day Guarantee launches in 2026
✅ Aussie Kindies is here to guide and support you
Need Help Understanding Your Options?
If you're planning child care in 2026, or just want to understand your entitlements a little better, we're here for you.
👉 Book a tour at your local Aussie Kindies Early Learning Centre
Let’s chat about how we can support your family and your child’s early learning journey.