The arrival of a new baby brings immense joy—but it also brings new financial pressures. To help families manage these early expenses, the Australian Government offers the Centrelink $948 Newborn Payment through Services Australia.
This one-off payment is designed to provide timely relief for parents facing costs such as hospital bills, baby supplies, and essential household needs. By easing the immediate financial burden, the initiative ensures that new parents can focus on what truly matters — the care and well-being of their newborn.
“This payment is especially helpful for families with low or limited income, ensuring that every parent gets the financial support they need during this vital stage of their child’s early life,” said a spokesperson from the Department of Social Services.
Table of Contents
Overview – Centrelink $948 Payment for New Parents
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Program Name | $948 Centrelink Payment for New Parents |
| Administered By | Centrelink (Services Australia) |
| Payment Amount | $948 (one-time, tax-free) |
| Frequency | One-off payment |
| Purpose | To assist parents with newborn-related expenses |
| Eligibility | Australian resident, primary carer of newborn, income/asset limits apply |
| How to Apply | Online via myGov (linked to Centrelink) or at a Centrelink office |
| Processing Time | Typically, within a few weeks after submission |
| Disbursement Method | Direct deposit to the recipient’s bank account |
| Additional Benefit | May be combined with other parental or family payments |
| Official Website | Services Australia |
Who Is Eligible for the $948 Centrelink Payment for New Parents?
Eligibility is based on a few key conditions established by Services Australia. To qualify, applicants must:
- Be the primary carer of the newborn child.
- Be an Australian resident at the time of birth.
- Provide proof of birth, such as a hospital record, birth certificate, or relevant government document.
- Meet income and asset limits, especially for low- to middle-income families.
- Not have already received a similar payment for the same child.
Only one parent or guardian can claim this payment per child. For multiple births (twins, triplets, etc.), additional payments may be available to help with higher expenses.
Tip: Even if you’re already receiving other Centrelink parental payments (like Parental Leave Pay or Family Tax Benefit), you may still be eligible for the $948 Newborn Payment — provided you meet all criteria.
What does the $948 Centrelink Payment cover?
The $948 lump-sum payment offers families flexibility to use the funds as they see fit. Common uses include:
- Hospital or maternity expenses not covered by insurance
- Newborn supplies like nappies, formula, and baby clothes
- Early medical or vaccination costs
- Essential household purchases for the baby’s arrival
- Transport costs related to hospital visits
For parents adjusting to reduced income during maternity or paternity leave, this payment provides an immediate financial cushion during one of life’s most significant transitions.
How to Apply for the $948 Centrelink Payment?
Step-by-Step Online Application Guide
You can apply for the payment quickly online via your myGov account linked to Centrelink:
- Log in to your myGov account.
- Select Centrelink from the dashboard.
- Go to Parental Payments or Family Assistance.
- Find and click the option for the $948 Centrelink Payment for New Parents.
- Complete the form with accurate personal and child details.
- Upload required documents, such as proof of birth and identification.
- Submit your application and wait for confirmation.
You can also apply in person at a Centrelink office, where staff can assist with form submission and documentation review.
Required Documents for Application
To ensure a smooth and timely process, prepare the following before you apply:
| Document Type | Examples |
|---|---|
| Proof of Identity | Passport, driver’s licence, or Medicare card |
| Proof of Birth | Hospital record, birth certificate, or discharge summary |
| Proof of Residency | Utility bill or rental agreement showing Australian address |
| Income & Asset Details | Payslips, bank statements, or tax return (if required) |
Important: Missing or unclear documents are the most common cause of delays. Double-check that all uploaded files are current, legible, and match the details in your application.
How and when is the $948 Payment sent?
Once your claim is approved, Centrelink deposits the $948 directly into your nominated bank account. Payments are typically processed within two to four weeks from the date of approval.
Key Details:
- Payment Type: One-time lump sum
- Payment Method: Direct deposit only
- Taxation: Non-taxable income (does not affect Family Tax Benefit or Parental Leave Pay)
- Notification: You will receive an SMS or email from Centrelink once the payment is made.
Parents are encouraged to verify that their bank details in Centrelink records are correct to prevent transfer delays.
Key Benefits of the $948 Centrelink Payment
- Immediate Support: Funds are paid soon after approval, offering quick relief.
- Non-Repayable: It’s a grant, not a loan — no repayment required.
- Covers Early Costs: Helps with baby essentials, hospital bills, or medical needs.
- Inclusive Program: Available to eligible parents across Australia, regardless of employment status.
- Encourages Stability: Eases financial stress, allowing parents to focus on their child’s care.
Family advocate Susan Miller noted: “This program may seem modest, but for first-time parents, it can make the difference between financial anxiety and a confident start to family life.”
Common Issues and How to Avoid Them
| Problem | How to Fix It |
|---|---|
| Missing or incomplete documents | Ensure all identity and birth proof are attached before submitting |
| Application delays | Apply early and respond promptly to Centrelink requests |
| Bank details not updated | Check and update account information under the Centrelink profile |
| Technical errors on myGov | Try again later or visit a Centrelink office for in-person help |
If you encounter persistent issues, call the Centrelink Families Line for assistance or visit your nearest Services Australia branch.
Key Takeaways
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Payment Amount | $948 one-time payment |
| Eligibility | Primary carer of newborn, Australian resident |
| Proof Required | Birth certificate or hospital record |
| Application Method | Online (myGov) or in-person at Centrelink |
| Processing Time | 2–4 weeks |
| Payment Type | Tax-free grant, direct deposit |
| Common Uses | Baby supplies, hospital fees, and early childcare costs |
| Support Goal | Reduce newborn-related financial stress for families |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1. Who can get the $948 Centrelink New Parents Payment?
Ans. Australian residents who are the primary carers of a newborn and meet income and asset criteria.
Q2. Is the $948 payment a loan?
Ans. No, it’s a non-taxable grant — you don’t need to repay it.
Q3. How soon will I get paid after approval?
Ans. Typically, within two to four weeks after your claim is approved.
Q4. Can both parents claim the payment?
Ans. No. Only one parent per child can receive this payment.
Q5. Can I still apply if I already receive Parental Leave Pay or Family Tax Benefit?
Ans.Yes, as long as you meet all eligibility conditions for this specific payment.