- By Christopher Luxon, Prime Minister and MP for Botany
For families of young children in Botany, you’ll be pleased to know the much-awaited FamilyBoost early childhood subsidy will be kicking in on October 1.
Families across New Zealand are facing rising costs, especially for early childhood education (ECE).
That’s why we campaigned so hard on delivering FamilyBoost, to ease the burden for young families who’ve been hit hard by the tough financial times caused by the economic mismanagement of the previous Government.
We’ve had to make some tough decisions, but we know our economic plan is working.
Inflation has fallen to 3.3 per cent, business confidence is at a 10-year high, and we’ve just delivered income tax relief for hard-working New Zealanders, so I’m pleased to let you know registrations for FamilyBoost payments are now open.
If your household income is under $180,000 and you have children in preschool, you should register through Inland Revenue’s myIR platform.
From October 1, claims can be made for the fees you paid for ECE between July 1 and September 30.
By registering, you can to 25 per cent of those ECE fees back to $75 per week or $975 every three months.
We know ECE fees can be a significant cost burden, particularly for families balancing work and childcare.
FamilyBoost will support over 100,000 families and 140,000 children, making ECE more accessible for more families.
For example, a couple earning $150,000 and paying $350 per week for ECE can expect a refund of $731.25 for the quarter.
Families with different income sources, including self-employed parents, are also eligible and single parents earning $85,000 can receive a refund of $812.50.
Separated parents sharing custody can each apply for FamilyBoost, each receiving refunds based on their ECE payments and income levels.
To apply, simply register on myIR, gather your ECE invoices, and be ready to submit your claim when applications open from October 1.
FamilyBoost is part of the Government’s commitment to helping families. We’re making it easier for parents to manage household expenses while ensuring their children get quality early education.
Make sure you register now, so things can become a little easier for you and your family.
