Centrelink Families Line (13 61 50) | 2026 Update
The Centrelink Families Line (13 61 50) is the primary phone service for parents and carers who require assistance with Family Tax Benefit (FTB), Child Care Subsidy (CCS), Parental Leave Pay, and other family-related payments. This line is the official point of contact for all family payment enquiries handled by Services Australia.
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Quick Facts (2026) While Calling
The Families Line number is 13 61 50. Operating hours are Monday to Friday, from 8:00 am to 8:00 pm local time. The service is closed on weekends and public holidays. The best times to call are between 8:00 am to 10:00 am or 2:00 pm to 4:00 pm, as these periods generally have shorter wait times. For overseas callers, the number is +61 3 6222 3455. As an online alternative, you can use myGov and send Centrelink messages.
What the Centrelink Families Line Covers?
The Families Line is dedicated to all family and parenting payment enquiries managed by Services Australia. This includes Family Tax Benefit (Part A and Part B), Child Care Subsidy (CCS) and Additional CCS, Parental Leave Pay and Dad and Partner Pay, Parenting Payment (single or partnered), and other related family payments. It also covers updates to income, relationship, or child details, debt and balancing enquiries, and assistance with linking myGov to Centrelink accounts.
Payment-Specific Support
Family Tax Benefit (FTB)
The Families Line provides assistance with eligibility checks, payment rate information, claim initiation, claim follow-ups, updates to income and child details, and understanding supplements and end-of-year balancing. Before calling, you should have your Customer Reference Number (CRN), income estimate, and child details ready.
Child Care Subsidy (CCS)
Support includes eligibility confirmation, approved hours guidance, assistance with linking your Centrelink record to your child care provider, reporting changes to work, income, or care arrangements, and understanding Additional Child Care Subsidy.
Parental Leave Pay and Parenting Payment
The Families Line supports claims for Parental Leave Pay and Dad and Partner Pay, eligibility guidance for Parenting Payment, updates to return-to-work dates, and help with reviews or appeals of decisions.
Contact Details & Hours
Centrelink Families Line
The phone number is 13 61 50. Operating hours are Monday to Friday, from 8:00 am to 8:00 pm local time. Calls are charged at standard local rates, with mobile charges varying depending on your provider.
Calling from Overseas
If you are calling from overseas, the number is +61 3 6222 3455. Standard international call charges apply.
Language & Accessibility Support
Services Australia provides support for non-English speakers and people with disabilities. Multilingual support is available via the Multilingual Line at 131 202 (Monday to Friday, 8:00 am to 5:00 pm). TIS National interpreter services are available 24/7 on 131 450. For hearing or speech support, TTY is available on 1800 810 586. The National Relay Service can be reached on 1800 555 727 (ask for 13 61 50). Free interpreter support is also available at Services Australia service centres.
Best Time to Call & Wait-Time Tips
The shortest wait times are typically between 8:00 am to 10:00 am and 2:00 pm to 4:00 pm. Avoid calling on Mondays and the day after public holidays, as these are the busiest periods. End-of-financial-year and school holiday periods also experience high call volumes. For simple tasks, use the Phone Self-Service line on 13 62 40, which operates 24/7.
What to Prepare Before Calling
To speed up verification and get your enquiry resolved efficiently, you should have your Customer Reference Number (CRN), date of birth, and address (matching the records). You should also have your myGov account status ready, income details or estimates, child and child care provider details, and any claim or reference numbers.
Sample Call Script
When calling, clearly state your name, CRN, and date of birth. Explain your enquiry and request confirmation of the status and next steps. For example: “Hi, my name is [Your Name]. My CRN is [CRN] and my date of birth is [DD/MM/YYYY]. I am calling about [FTB / CCS / Parental Leave Pay]. My myGov account is [linked / not linked]. Please confirm the status and the next steps.”
Step-by-Step: How to Call
Dial 13 61 50. Follow the voice prompts and select the option that matches your enquiry. Enter your CRN when prompted. If required, choose the option to speak to a service officer. Ensure you note any reference numbers provided during the call.
If You Can’t Get Through
If you cannot reach the Families Line, use myGov or the Express Plus Centrelink app to check payments, upload documents, and manage simple tasks. You may also visit a local Services Australia service centre for in-person assistance. If you require interpreter or relay services, use the numbers listed above. Community or legal centres can provide help with reviews or appeals. For complaints and feedback, contact 1800 132 468 (Monday to Friday).
Frequently Asked Questions (2026) Centrelink Families Line
What is the Centrelink Families Line number?
The Families Line number is 13 61 50.
What are the operating hours?
The operating hours are Monday to Friday, 8:00 am to 8:00 pm local time.
Is it free to call?
Calls are charged at standard local rates. Mobile charges may vary depending on your provider.
Can I update income or family details by phone?
Yes, updates can be made by phone once your identity is verified.
Can someone call on my behalf?
Only authorised nominees listed on your Centrelink record may call on your behalf.
How can I check payments without calling?
Payments can be checked using myGov or the Express Plus Centrelink app.
Conclusion
The Centrelink Families Line (13 61 50) remains the main support channel for Australian families in 2026. While many routine tasks are faster online, calling the Families Line is the most reliable option for complex enquiries, personalised support, and detailed payment guidance.
This guide is for general information only. Always confirm details through official Services Australia channels.