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In Australia, including Perth, Child Support Law is administered by the Department of Human Services under the Child Support Scheme. The goal of this system is to ensure that both parents contribute financially towards the cost of raising their children after a separation. The amount of child support is usually determined by a formula that takes into consideration the income of both parents, the number of nights the child spends with each parent, the age of the child, and other factors.
While the Child Support system is designed to be straightforward, there are circumstances in which you may need the services of a lawyer. If there are disputes over income, custody or care arrangements, having a legal professional to represent your interests is vital. Similarly, if there are issues of domestic violence or child abuse, or if one parent lives overseas, the situation can become legally complex. A Child Support lawyer can also help ensure that the assessment process, obligations, and payments are fairly managed.
In Perth, the Child Support Scheme follows the national Australian law. Parents may agree privately on the amount of child support, but such private agreements should be registered with the Department of Human Services. If no agreement can be reached, the Department applies the child support formula. In case of changed circumstances, such as new employment or changes in care arrangement, parents must inform the Department, as this may affect the child support calculation. Failure to make child support payments can lead to enforcement actions.
The amount of child support is calculated based on a formula that considers the income of both parents, the number of children you have, and how often they stay with you.
If the other parent is not paying child support, you should contact the Department of Human Services. They have a variety of measures they can use to ensure payments are made.
Yes, Legal Aid WA provides assistance for family law matters, including child support issues.
Yes, child support agreements can be changed if both parents agree to the changes or if a court order is made.
If you disagree with a child support decision, you can ask for a review. If you're not satisfied with the review outcome, it's recommended to seek legal advice.
The Department of Human Services website contains comprehensive information on the Child Support Scheme. Legal Aid WA provides free legal advice. You can also consult reputable online legal advice platforms for further guidance.
If you need legal assistance with Child Support, make an appointment to speak with a lawyer specializing in family law. Prepare a list of questions and any relevant documentation to facilitate your meeting. Remember, it's critical to protect your rights and ensure your children's wellbeing.
