Household Assistance Package
Millions of Australians will continue to receive assistance through the Australian Government’s Household Assistance Package. Between March this year and January 2014 ongoing increases will be made to existing government payments. You don’t have to do anything to receive the additional assistance; it will be paid automatically into your bank account. Continue reading about the Household Assistance Package.
Schoolkids Bonus
If school expenses are weighing you down, the Schoolkids Bonus can help lighten the load. It’s a payment to help eligible families and students with the education-related costs of primary and secondary school studies. The Schoolkids Bonus can be used to assist with the costs of things like school fees, uniforms, books and sports, music or other lessons. It replaces the old Education Tax Refund so there’s no need to collect receipts or claim it through your tax. Continue reading about the Schoolkids Bonus.
Paid Parental Leave
Australia’s first national Paid Parental Leave scheme gives working mothers the financial security to stay at home with their newborn baby in those important first months of life. Continue reading about Paid Parental Leave.
Dad and Partner Pay
From 1 January 2013, new dads and same-sex partners benefit from Dad and Partner Pay. Eligible dads or partners receive two weeks’ pay at the national minimum wage so they can be at home for those very special and important first weeks with their new baby and support mums right from the start. Continue reading about Dad and Partner Pay.
Family Tax Benefit
Family Tax Benefit Part A helps families with the costs of raising children, and single parent or single-income families receive extra support through Family Tax Benefit Part B.
From 1 January 2012, Family Tax Benefit Part A increased for eligible families with dependent 16 to 19 year olds who are undertaking full-time secondary study.
Supplements are available for eligible families:
- Healthy Start for School
It’s important for kids to start school healthy and ready to learn. The Healthy Start for School program offers free health checks for children before they start primary school. - Strengthening immunisation for young children
From 1 July 2012, families need to fully immunise their young children to receive the Family Tax Benefit Part A end-of-year supplement.
Australian Families on Facebook
The Australian Families Facebook page provides an accessible and user-friendly way for families to find out more about support for families and share their thoughts about parenting. The link is www.facebook.com/FamiliesinAustralia
Crisis Payment
Crisis Payment is a one-off payment provided to people who are in severe financial hardship and are receiving an income support payment. Continue reading about the Crisis Payment.
Department of Human Services
The Department of Human Services’ Families page www.humanservices.gov.au/families has more details about payments and services for families.