Centrelink $600 Child Payment 2024: Eligibility and Important Details for Low-Income Families

In 2024, Centrelink is offering a one-off $600 payment per child to help low-income families manage rising living costs. This support aims to alleviate financial stress, particularly for families with children under 16 years old (or under 17 if still in school). In this guide, we’ll walk you through the eligibility criteria, how to apply, and other available government assistance programs that could benefit your family.

What is the $600 Per Child Payment?

The $600 payment is a financial relief measure aimed at supporting families facing financial strain due to the increasing cost of living in Australia. With inflation raising the prices of basic necessities like food, housing, and fuel, many families are feeling the pinch. This one-off payment provides some financial breathing room, particularly for families with children under 16 years old, or under 17 if they are still in secondary school.

This initiative is designed to provide temporary assistance during a challenging financial period, helping to ease the burden on low-income households.

Why Is This Payment Being Offered?

• Financial Relief: The cost of living has increased significantly in Australia, placing a strain on families. This payment offers immediate support to help families navigate the rising expenses.
• Targeted at Vulnerable Families: This payment focuses on low-income households, where managing the cost of raising children is often more difficult.
• Temporary Nature: The payment is a one-off measure, designed to provide short-term relief during tough financial times.

Who Is Eligible for the Centrelink $600 Payment?

To qualify for the $600 per child payment, families must meet the following criteria:

1. Income and Asset Test

The payment targets low-income families, and eligibility will be assessed based on your family’s income and assets. If you’re already receiving the Family Tax Benefit (FTB), you’re likely to qualify, as this benefit serves as a benchmark for eligibility.

2. Age of Children

The payment applies to children under the age of 16. If a child is 16 or 17 but still attending secondary school, they may also qualify.

3. Residency Requirements

To be eligible, your family must meet residency requirements, which typically include being an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or holding specific temporary visas.

4. Other Centrelink Benefits

If you are already receiving Centrelink payments such as Parenting Payment, Youth Allowance, or JobSeeker, you may also be eligible for this additional support. Centrelink will review your situation on an individual basis.

How to Apply for the $600 Payment

For Current Centrelink Recipients:

If you are already receiving Family Tax Benefit or other Centrelink payments, there is no need to apply separately. Centrelink will automatically assess your eligibility and add the $600 payment to your regular benefits.

For New Applicants:

If you’re not currently receiving Centrelink assistance, you will need to apply for Family Tax Benefit (FTB) or another relevant payment to qualify for this one-off relief. Here’s how:

• Log in to your myGov account and link it to Centrelink.
• Complete the Family Tax Benefit (FTB) or other relevant application.
• Submit the required documentation, such as proof of income and residency status.
• Wait for confirmation of your eligibility from Centrelink.

Payment Timing

The $600 payment will be issued throughout 2024. Families who are already receiving FTB will see the payment included with their regular payments. For new applicants, the payment will be processed once your Family Tax Benefit application is approved.

Additional Government Assistance for Low-Income Families

In addition to the $600 per child payment, several other government benefits may be available to families in need: