The Micro Seminar:
Time: 12:15 pm – 13:15 pm
Date: 11th of January 2023

Room 3001

Alexandra DE GENDRE (University of Melbourne) “Child Health and Parental Responses to an Unconditional Cash Transfer at Birth”

Abstract : We estimate the impact on child health of the unanticipated introduction of the Australian Baby Bonus, a $3,000 one-off unconditional cash transfer at birth. Using regression discontinuity methods and linked administrative data from South Australia, we find that treated babies had fewer preventable, acute, and urgent hospital presentations—medical care available without co-payments—in the first two years of life. The payment later increased demand for elective care, which requires planning, medical referrals, and often co-payments. Our effects are strongest for disadvantaged families. Our findings suggest that up to 34% of the payout were recouped within the first year.

Joint work : John Lynch, Aurélie Meunier, Rhiannon Pilkington, and Stefanie Schurer

Sponsors:
CREST