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Child Support in Australia is governed by the Child Support (Assessment) Act 1989. The main purpose of child support is to ensure both parents contribute to the financial support of their children after separation or divorce. The Child Support Agency is responsible for assessing, collecting, and transferring child support payments.
You may need a lawyer for various reasons related to child support, such as disputes over the assessment of child support payments, negotiations with the other parent, applying for a change in assessment, or enforcement actions. A lawyer can provide legal advice, representation in court, and help navigate the complexities of child support law.
Key aspects of child support laws in Australia include the formula used to calculate child support payments, the role of the Child Support Agency in assessing payments, the considerations taken into account when determining child support, and the options available for parents to challenge or change assessments.
Child support payments in Australia are calculated using a formula that takes into account the income of both parents, the number of children, and the percentage of care each parent provides.
Child support can be backdated to the date when the application was lodged or when the circumstances changed, but it cannot be backdated for more than 18 months.
If a parent fails to pay child support, the Child Support Agency can take enforcement actions such as garnishing wages, suspending licenses, or taking legal action.
Child support agreements can be changed if there is a significant change in circumstances, such as a change in income or care arrangements.
Child support is influenced by the percentage of care each parent provides, so changes in care arrangements can impact child support payments.
Child support continues until the child turns 18, or 19 if they are still in full-time education.
Child support can be paid directly between parents, but it is recommended to use the Child Support Agency for collection and distribution to ensure compliance.
Child support payments are not tax-deductible for the paying parent and not considered taxable income for the receiving parent.
Child support can be waived or reduced in certain circumstances, such as financial hardship or special circumstances, but it requires a formal application and approval from the Child Support Agency.
If the other parent lives overseas, child support can still be assessed and enforced, but it may require international cooperation and legal processes.
For more information about child support in Australia, you can visit the Child Support Agency website or seek advice from a family lawyer specializing in child support matters.
If you need legal assistance with child support matters, it is recommended to consult with a family lawyer who can provide guidance, representation, and help you navigate the complexities of child support law in Australia.
