Grandparents raising their grandchildren may be eligible for government payments of up to $306.46 per child every fortnight to help cover the cost of food, clothing, school expenses and other everyday needs.
Family Tax Benefit is available to eligible carers, including grandparents who have taken on the responsibility of raising a child, whether through a formal or informal arrangement.
The amount received depends on factors including family income, the number and ages of children in care, and eligibility requirements.
According to the 2021 Census, more than 60,000 families across Australia had grandparents raising their grandchildren.
There is an important difference between regularly helping with babysitting and being primarily responsible for a child’s upbringing. Grandparents who have taken on the main caring role may qualify for support, although different rules can apply if the child’s parent lives in the same home.
What payments are available?
The Family Tax Benefit has two parts.
Part A provides between $75.60 and $306.46 per child each fortnight, depending on individual circumstances.
Part B provides eligible families with up to $200.34 per fortnight if their youngest child is aged under five, or $139.86 if their youngest child is aged between five and 18.
Grandparents may also qualify for help with childcare costs through the Child Care Subsidy. Generally, they must care for the child for at least two days a fortnight and be responsible for paying childcare fees.
Those who are the primary carer for their grandchild and receive an eligible income support payment may qualify for the Additional Child Care Subsidy Grandparent. This can provide up to 100 hours of subsidised childcare each fortnight, potentially covering some or all of the fees.
Another option is the Foster Child Health Care Card, which can help eligible children access cheaper medicines and other concessions. Grandparents do not necessarily need to be formal foster carers to qualify, and there is no income or assets test.
Where can grandparents get help?
Taking on responsibility for a grandchild can happen unexpectedly, often during a difficult period for the family. Working out which payments and services are available can add to the pressure.
Services Australia has dedicated Grandparent, Foster and Kinship Carer Advisers who can explain support options, provide information about Centrelink, Medicare and Child Support, and direct carers to other government and community services.
The service handled about 44,000 calls in 2024–25.
Grandparents raising a child can find information about eligibility and available assistance through the official Services Australia website. The Raising Children Network also provides practical advice for grandparents and kinship carers.
Eligibility and payment rates vary, so grandparents should check their circumstances with Services Australia before relying on a particular payment.
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