Child Support

How is child support calculated in Australia?

It's set by a national formula run by Services Australia, not by a judge. The formula looks at both parents' incomes, the cost of raising children of that age (using figures updated each year), and how much time each parent cares for them. Because the inputs change yearly, the only reliable figure is your own assessment — call us and we'll help you understand what's driving yours.

I think my assessment is wrong — what can I do?

You have options. You can lodge a formal objection, usually within 28 days of the decision letter; you can apply for a change of assessment if special circumstances mean the standard formula gives an unfair result; and in some cases you can go to court. The 28-day window is tight, so get advice quickly if a decision looks off.

How long do I have to object to a child support decision?

Generally 28 days from the date on your decision letter (90 days if you live overseas in a reciprocating country). If you object late and succeed, the change usually can't be backdated to the original decision — so it pays to act fast. A free call will tell you whether you have grounds and how to lodge it.

The other parent isn't paying — how do I get the money?

If you've been collecting privately, you can ask Services Australia to collect for you. Once it does, it can deduct support from wages, intercept tax refunds and recover overdue amounts. There are limits on how far back the agency goes, and older arrears may need court action — so the sooner you act, the better. Call and we'll help you find the quickest route.

Can we just agree on an amount ourselves?

Yes. You can run a private arrangement, or formalise a figure in a written child support agreement. A limited agreement doesn't need legal advice; a binding agreement is much harder to change and both parents must get their own legal advice first. Because a binding agreement is hard to undo, it's worth understanding what you're locking in before you sign — that's something we can talk through.

Does child support change if my income or care arrangements change?

It can, but not automatically. The amount runs on income and care, so a pay change, job loss, new child, or shift in how many nights the children spend with each parent can all affect it — but only once Services Australia is told. Don't assume it updates on its own; a quick call can confirm whether your situation warrants a change.

Is calling Legal Hotline really free?

Yes. The information line is free and open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Call any time to understand where you stand on child support — no cost, no obligation.