Family Tax Benefit Eligibility 2026–27: Who Can Claim
To be eligible for Family Tax Benefit in 2026–27, you must care for a dependent child at least 14% of the time, meet Australian residency rules, satisfy the relevant income tests, and ensure your child meets the 'No Jab, No Pay' immunisation requirements. Dependent children must be 0–15 years old, or 16–19 years old in full-time secondary study or training.
Key Facts at a Glance (2026–27)
- Must care for a dependent child at least 14% of the time (52 nights/year).
- Must be an Australian resident, permanent visa holder, or eligible special category visa holder.
- Children must be up-to-date with vaccinations on the Australian Immunisation Register (AIR).
- Children turning 4 must complete an eligible health check for the end-of-year supplement.
1. Core FTB Eligibility Rules
To receive Family Tax Benefit in 2026–27, you must meet all four fundamental requirements:
1. Care of Dependent Child
You must care for a child aged 0–15, or 16–19 in full-time secondary study.
2. 14% Care Minimum
You must have care of the child at least 14% of the time (52 nights/year).
3. Residency Status
You must live in Australia and hold an eligible citizenship or visa.
4. Income Testing
Your family Adjusted Taxable Income must satisfy the statutory income tests.
2. Australian Residency Rules
On the day you submit your claim, you must be physically present and living in Australia and hold one of the following statuses:
- Australian citizen
- Permanent visa holder
- Special Category visa (Subclass 444) holder (New Zealand citizens residing in Australia)
- Holder of an eligible temporary partner or humanitarian visa subclass.
4. No Jab, No Pay Immunisation Rules
Under the Australian Government's "No Jab, No Pay" policy, children must be up-to-date with childhood immunisations on the Australian Immunisation Register (AIR) or have an approved medical exemption. If a child is not immunised:
- Your FTB Part A fortnightly payment will be reduced by approximately $33.32 per fortnight.
- You will be disqualified from receiving the $970.90 Part A end-of-year supplement for that child.
5. Healthy Start for School Health Checks
If you receive an income support payment (such as Parenting Payment) and care for a child turning 4 years of age during the financial year, the child must complete a health assessment before their 5th birthday to qualify for the full Part A supplement.
Official Legislative References & Sources
- Services Australia - Who can get Family Tax Benefit (Services Australia, verified September 2026)
Frequently Asked Questions
Practical answers to common questions about Family Tax Benefit rules, eligibility, and payments.
Yes. New Zealand citizens residing in Australia on a Special Category Visa (Subclass 444) satisfy the residency requirements for Family Tax Benefit and can claim Part A, Part B, and supplements if income eligible.
Related Family Tax Benefit Resources
Explore specific rules, rate tables, and income tests for 2026–27.