Navigating through a divorce or separation is challenging, and arranging child support can be a complex and confusing process. This guide will provide an overview of the process of arranging child support in Australia, taking into account the most recent changes in 2023.
Child Support in Australia: The Basics
Child support in Australia is designed to ensure that children’s well-being is maintained and that both parents meet their obligations to financially support their children after a divorce. Services Australia handles applications for child support and employs a complex formula to calculate child support payments. This formula considers factors like the number of children, the age of each child, the income of both parents, and the care and cost percentage of each parent.
You may wonder, ‘what percentage of income is expected to be contributed towards child support?’ The answer varies as the proportion of each parent’s income required for child support is determined by individual circumstances, including care arrangements, income, and several other factors.
Arranging Child Support: Your Options
- Child Support Agreement:
If you and your former partner can agree amicably on child support payments, you can create a Child Support Agreement without the involvement of Services Australia. This is often a less stressful route, but might not always be possible if disagreements arise. - Child Support Assessment by Services Australia:
If you cannot reach an agreement with your former partner on the amount of child support, you may need to have a child support assessment carried out by Services Australia. This involves a thorough review of your circumstances, including factors such as the number of children, their ages, your income and your former partner’s income, and each parent’s share of care and costs. - Formalising a Private Agreement:
In some cases, you may wish to formalise a private agreement with the other parent. This can be done informally or through a Binding Child Support Agreement. This type of agreement is complex and must comply with specific legislative requirements, but it can also be flexible and tailored to your specific circumstances.
Further Assistance:
The process of arranging child support can seem daunting, but understanding the basics can make it more manageable. Remember, every family’s situation is unique, so be sure to consult with a lawyer or contact Services Australia to understand what’s best for your circumstances.