Australia Rights Guide
Child Support in Australia: Your Rights and How to Apply
Services Australia (Child Support) calculates and collects child support for Australian families. Both parents have a legal obligation. Apply online or call 131 272.
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Direct Answer
In Australia, both parents are legally obligated to financially support their children until age 18 under the Child Support (Assessment) Act 1989. Services Australia administers the child support system and uses a formula based on both parents' incomes and the care arrangement. You can apply online at my.gov.au or call Services Australia on 131 272.
What the Law Says
Your Legal Foundation
Child Support (Assessment) Act 1989 (Cth)
Section 3
“The parents of a child are liable to maintain the child. The level of financial support is assessed according to a formula that takes into account the parents' incomes and the amount of care provided.”
Child Support (Registration and Collection) Act 1988 (Cth)
Section 4
“The Child Support Registrar may collect assessed child support through wage garnishment, interception of tax refunds, and other enforcement measures.”
Family Law Act 1975 (Cth)
Section 66C
“Each parent of a child and each person with whom a child lives is responsible for maintaining the child to the extent the parent is reasonably able to do so.”
Common Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to go to court to get child support?
No. The Services Australia child support assessment process is administrative — no court needed. You only go to the Family Court if you cannot agree on special arrangements (non-standard expenses, very unusual situations) or to enforce a court order.
The other parent is self-employed and hides their income — what can I do?
Apply for a Change of Assessment on the grounds that the assessment is unfair due to the other parent's lifestyle exceeding their declared income. A Child Support Officer can investigate. The ATO also receives tip-offs about undeclared income.
Does child support cover private school fees and medical costs?
Standard child support covers day-to-day expenses. Special expenses like private school fees, extracurricular activities, or significant medical costs can be added to the assessment or agreed privately. Apply for a Change of Assessment if the other parent refuses to share these costs.
Can child support be paid internationally?
Yes. Australia has reciprocal child support arrangements with many countries. Services Australia can pursue child support from parents in these countries. Contact them for the list of countries and the process.
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