How much does it cost to raise a child in Australia?

Australian research commonly puts the cost of raising a child to age 18 at well over $100,000 for a middle-income family — before childcare and private schooling, which can add a great deal more. The biggest drivers are housing, childcare and education, and the cost rises with household income because spending tends to scale up.

What's the biggest cost of having kids?

Childcare in the early years and private school fees later are the two largest variable costs. Childcare can exceed $20,000 a year per child before the Childcare Subsidy, and private school fees range from a few thousand to tens of thousands a year. Day-to-day costs (food, clothing, activities) are significant but more predictable.

What government support is there for the cost of children?

Family Tax Benefit Parts A and B help with everyday costs, the Childcare Subsidy reduces childcare fees, and Paid Parental Leave covers part of the income lost around the birth. Eligibility and amounts depend on your income and situation — our family and Centrelink calculators can estimate each.

Cost of Raising a Child Calculator

Estimate what it really costs to raise a child in Australia — per year, per week, and all the way to age 18 — including the big variables of childcare and school fees.

Last verified: 5 May 2026

How much does raising a child cost?

Australian research puts it at well over $100,000 to age 18 for a middle-income family — before childcare and private school, the two biggest variables. Government support (FTB, Childcare Subsidy, PPL) offsets part of it. Source: AIFS research.

Worked example. One child, middle income, no private school, childcare already subsidised ≈ $14,000/year(~$270/week) and roughly $250,000 to age 18 once a few years of childcare are added.

General information and estimates only — not financial, tax, or legal advice. Always verify with a licensed adviser or the ATO.

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