What's happening?
Child support is financial support paid by parents towards the cost of raising their children after separation. It is generally administered by Services Australia, which applies a formula based on each parent's income, care arrangements and the needs of the children, though parents can also enter their own child support agreements.
What could it mean for me?
- Child support assessments are generally based on income and the amount of care each parent provides
- Private agreements can be used instead of, or alongside, an assessment in some circumstances
- Changes in income or care arrangements can affect an assessment
- Disputes about assessments can be reviewed through Services Australia or, in some cases, the courts
What are my options?
- Apply for a child support assessment through Services Australia
- Negotiate a private child support agreement
- Seek a review if you believe an assessment doesn't reflect your circumstances
- Get advice if a dispute cannot be resolved through the usual review process
What happens next?
- Confirm your care arrangements and income details
- Apply for an assessment or negotiate an agreement
- Monitor whether changes in circumstances need to be reported
- Seek a review or legal advice if a dispute arises
How can MGE Lawyers help?
We advise parents on how child support is generally assessed and the options available if there is a dispute about an assessment or a proposed agreement.
Where matters can't be resolved through the usual administrative process, we can advise on further options available to you.