What happens when your child turns 14

At 14, your child can apply for a tax file number (TFN) without your help. Find out more about applying for a TFN on the Australian Taxation Office website.

They may also be able to get a job. If they do and you get FTB, it won’t affect your rate. Read more about employment for teenagers and FTB.

Your child may also be eligible for Child Dental Benefits Schedule.

If you have a child with disability, you may continue to qualify for Child Care Subsidy until they’re 18. Read more about Child Care Subsidy.

Medicare history statement

When a child turns 14, you’ll no longer have access to their Medicare claims history online.

If you need to request their Medicare claims history use the Request for Medicare claims information form.

Immunisation history statement

The immunisation history statement shows all vaccines recorded on the Australian Immunisation Register (AIR) by vaccination providers. It also shows any vaccines that are due or overdue.

Once your child turns 14, you’ll no longer be able to access their immunisation history statement. They’ll be able to view it using their Medicare online account through myGov. They can also use the Express Plus Medicare mobile app.

Your child can also request a statement either:

• from their vaccination provider
• by going to a service centre
• by calling the Australian Immunisation Register and asking us to post a copy.

It can take up to 10 business days to get the statement in the post. Read more about the AIR.

Bank account

When your child turns 14, they can register their bank account with Medicare.

Getting Medicare benefits

Children 14 years and over can get Medicare benefits where they’ve been charged for the cost for the Medicare service. To make sure your child gets the Medicare benefit, they’ll need to register a bank account for Medicare.

If you pay your child’s invoices, you can still receive the Medicare benefit by making sure you’re the claimant indicated in the Medicare claim.