Bringing a baby into the world sure is an exciting time, but it’s also a commitment you must be ready for both mentally and financially. Social media has made having a baby look like a breeze, but it’s not often we talk about all the costs that come along with it. In this blog, we’re going to get real so you can be prepared.

How much does it cost to have a baby in Australia?

There are studies out there estimating that it can cost a family up to $10,000. While it may not equate to this for everyone, the costs can add up quickly, so regardless of whether you go public or private, the more you can prepare, the better. Here’s a guide to some of the expenses you may come across. 

• At home items – up to $5,000

  • Cot, mattress, changing table, drawers, comfort chair, car seat, linen, toys, highchair, baby monitors, the list goes on… word on the street is that a Bugaboo, aka the Rolls Royce of prams, starts from $1150 alone!

• Clothes (mum and baby) – up to $700

• Disposable items – about $50 per week

  • Nappies, wipes etc.

• Medical expenses – anywhere between $2,000 and $10,000, depending on your health cover and pregnancy risk. If you go down the route of private health insurance, expect to pay roughly $2,500 for the 12-month waiting period leading up to becoming pregnant. In addition, there are out of pocket expenses involved for certain scans and tests, as well as classes, specialists and obstetricians (that aren’t generally covered by Medicare or private health).

• Childcare – up to $150 a day
  
  

We’re fortunate that the healthcare system in Australia looks after us, so if you can’t afford private health insurance, you’re always going to be well looked after. However, if you do find yourself in need of cash, just grab an instant payday advance from MyPayNow.

Pregnancy and family benefits

There are many forms of income support available for parents and families to help with the arrival of a little one. One of these is Parental Leave Pay, where eligible working parents can receive benefits of up to 18 weeks. This is available for the primary carer of the newborn or adopted child. For the dads/partners, you could receive the Dad and Partner Pay of up to 2 weeks pay if currently on unpaid leave or not working. Both of these payments are based on the national minimum wage, and at the time of writing the payment is $772.55 per week before tax.

Be sure to check out the Australian Government website for the full list of family payments and support, as well as eligibility requirements and up to date payment information.