What is Child Support
Child support refers to a payment made by either one or both of the parents of a child to the other parent, or to a legal carer for the child. It is a means of financially supplementing the costs involved in raising a child. Generally this is a regular payment, but can also be a lump sum, transfer of property or ad hoc payments for specific expenses. Child support is payed until the child is 18 years old.
Will I be Eligible for Child Support?
- Must be the legal carer of the child
- This is either the legal parent or non-parent of the child
- Do not need to have been married
- You can check the Dept. of Human Services website for more information about how this requirement is met here: https://www.humanservices.gov.au/individuals/services/child-support/child-support-assessment/what-you-need-know/eligibility
What is Taken into Consideration?
- Both Parents’ Income
- Who cares for the child (by percentage)
What is the Assessment Formula?
The assessment formula is complex and seeks to understand the income of each parent before then determining how much of the care of the child each parent is responsible for. Based on this percentage, financial support is then determined. The calculation considers the financial obligations of both parents to contribute to the raising of the child.
How Do I Apply?
You can apply by completing the assessment form at your local Centrelink, or you can apply online here: https://childsupportapplication.humanservices.gov.au/csos_site/assessmentapplication/registrationPage.jsf?wec-appid=cssr_reg&wec-locale=en_US