Money and family support
Payments, leave and costs explained for Australian families.
Start with the big three
Most families look at Parental Leave Pay, Child Care Subsidy and Family Tax Benefit. All are managed by Services Australia through myGov.
Plan the year ahead
A simple budget for the first year makes decisions about leave and care easier.
Guides
Money & supportPaid Parental Leave explainedWho can get Parental Leave Pay, how much it is and how to share it between parents.PlanningHow much does having a baby cost in Australia?One-off purchases may include a cot and child restraint. Ongoing costs can include nappies, food, transport, healthcare and childcare.Family lifeChild Care Subsidy in Australia: a parent’s starting guideChild Care Subsidy can help eligible families with approved childcare fees. The amount depends on your circumstances.NewbornEnrolling your newborn in Medicare and CentrelinkThe forms to sort in the first weeks, and the order to do them in.PregnancyPublic or private birth in Australia: costs and choicesHow public, private and midwife-led care differ, and what each usually costs.SchoolBefore and after school care: options and costsOutside school hours care explained, and how Child Care Subsidy applies.PlanningA family budget you can actually revisitA simple overview of regular income and expenses.
Other topics
Dads & partners Money & support Health & safety School
Useful tools
Wellbeing & moneyParental Leave Pay calculatorEstimate Parental Leave Pay and plan how to share the 26 weeks.Wellbeing & moneyCost of a baby plannerOne-off and ongoing costs in AUD.Family & schoolChild-care waitlist trackerEvery centre, date joined and follow-up.Wellbeing & moneyAustralian family supportOfficial starting points for care, payments and leave.