Australia’s Single‑Income Family Supplement (SIFS) is an important annual government payment introduced to support families who depend mainly on one income earner. In 2026, eligible Australian families can receive up to $300 per year through this supplement. It is part of the broader suite of family support payments and is designed to help with living costs, especially for households raising children on a single income.
What Is The Single‑Income Family Supplement
The Single‑Income Family Supplement is not a regular fortnightly payment. Instead, it is an annual lump‑sum payment that eligible families receive once their income and family details are assessed for the previous financial year.
This payment recognizes the unique financial pressures faced by families where only one person is earning most of the household income, especially when raising dependent children.
Who Is Eligible For The Payment
Eligibility for the Single‑Income Family Supplement 2026 depends on several specific criteria. To qualify, families must meet the following conditions:
- The family must have been eligible for this payment on 30 June 2017 and continue to meet ongoing conditions.
- There must be only one main income earner in the household.
- The main earner’s taxable income must fall between $68,000 and $150,000.
- If a second earner exists, their income must be under $18,000.
- The family must be caring for at least one eligible child.
- The family must receive or be eligible for Family Tax Benefit, although in some cases a separate claim can be made if Family Tax Benefit is not received.
This payment is only available to families that have maintained eligibility since 2017. New families that do not meet the historic eligibility condition cannot claim this supplement in 2026.
How Much You Can Receive
The maximum amount payable under the Single‑Income Family Supplement is $300 per year. The exact amount a family receives is determined by:
- The household taxable income during the financial year.
- The number of days during the year that the family was caring for an eligible child.
This calculation process usually takes place after the end of the financial year, once income data and family circumstances are reviewed.
How To Claim The Single‑Income Family Supplement
The claiming process for the Single‑Income Family Supplement depends on whether a family already receives Family Tax Benefit:
If You Receive Family Tax Benefit
If your family is currently receiving the Family Tax Benefit (FTB), you do not need to make a separate claim for the Single‑Income Family Supplement. The government will automatically assess your eligibility when your FTB information is reviewed after the financial year.
If You Do Not Receive Family Tax Benefit
If you are not a Family Tax Benefit recipient but meet all other eligibility criteria, you must submit a separate claim. Here are the recommended steps:
- Review Eligibility – Check that your income and family details meet the eligibility requirements.
- Prepare Documents – Gather proof of income and details of dependents for the year.
- Submit a Claim – Use your Centrelink online account (myGov) to lodge your application after the end of the financial year.
- Provide Supporting Information – In some cases, you may be asked to submit tax returns or other documents to verify details.
- Wait for Decision – You will receive a response from the government once your claim has been assessed.
Key Information
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Payment Name | Single‑Income Family Supplement (SIFS) |
| Maximum Amount | Up to $300 per year |
| Payment Type | Annual lump sum |
| Main Income Earner | Taxable income $68,000–$150,000 |
| Second Earner Income | Must be below $18,000 |
| Child Requirement | At least one eligible child |
| Ongoing Eligibility Condition | Must have been eligible since 30 June 2017 |
| How to Claim | Automatic if on Family Tax Benefit; separate claim if otherwise |
| Assessment Time | After end of financial year |
The Australia Single‑Income Family Supplement 2026 provides valuable financial support of up to $300 annually for families with a single main income earner. With rising living costs, this supplement helps eligible families manage expenses and plan better for the year ahead.
To benefit, make sure you understand the eligibility requirements, know how to claim it, and ensure all income information is up to date when the assessment period opens. By following the correct process, eligible families can receive this government support without missing out.
FAQs
Is the Single‑Income Family Supplement paid regularly?
No. It is paid once a year after eligibility and income details for the financial year are assessed. Families do not receive it as part of fortnightly payments.
Can new families apply for SIFS in 2026?
No. Only families who were eligible for the supplement on 30 June 2017 and have remained eligible since that date can receive it.
What happens if my income changes during the year?
If your income moves outside the specified range, this may affect your eligibility or the amount you receive. It’s important to report income changes accurately.