Families urged to take kids for health checks:

Families on income support with a child turning four this financial year are being reminded to take them for a health check before 30 June 2014.

Minister for Human Services, Senator Marise Payne, said around 35,000 families will receive a letter this month reminding them to take their children for a health check to ensure they are fit, healthy and ready to start school next year.

"Detecting health issues when children first start school can help improve a child's ability to learn, and give them a better chance of succeeding in school and life," Senator Payne said.

"Once you have taken your child for a health check, it's important to tell us before 30 June 2014 to receive the Family Tax Benefit Part A supplement worth up to $726.

"The easiest way to do this is via online services or your myGov account. Simply select 'Family Assistance' then 'update your healthy start for school review'.

"You can also use your One Time Access Code in your letter to tell us online. Remember, you can drop into your local service centre to use one of the computers available there if you do not have internet access at home."

Minister Payne said health checks can be completed from three years of age by State and Territory child and maternal health clinics, or by a registered health professional, such as a local doctor, practice nurse or registered Aboriginal health worker.

"The health checks assess your child's physical health and general wellbeing, and will cover things like height, weight, hearing and sight," Minister Payne said

"These health checks encourage an ongoing healthy lifestyle and help to identify and address any issues as early as possible to ensure children are in the best possible health."

For further information and health check requirements for each State and Territory, please visit http://www.humanservices.gov.au/healthystart