Child support is a legal system designed to ensure that children of separated parents receive adequate financial support.
In Brisbane, as in the rest of Australia, child support is calculated using a formula that considers both parents’ incomes, the cost of raising children, and the time each parent spends with them.
This process is governed by the Child Support Scheme, which is managed by Services Australia.
This guide answers how does child support work, the factors that influence the amount you may pay or receive, and what you need to know if you live in Brisbane.
What Is Child Support and Who Pays It?
Child support is a financial contribution made by one parent to the other to help cover the costs of raising their children.
Payments are typically made by the parent who spends less time with the child, known as the “non-resident parent,” to the parent with primary care responsibilities.
Key Takeaway:
If you are the parent with primary care, you may be entitled to child support payments to help cover living expenses, education, and other costs related to your child.
To better understand how parenting arrangements influence child support, explore our guide on child custody.
How Is Child Support Calculated?
The amount of child support is determined using the Basic Child Support Formula developed by Services Australia. This formula considers:
- Both parents’ incomes: Your taxable income is assessed after deducting a self-support amount to cover your basic living expenses.
- Care arrangements: The percentage of time each parent spends with the child affects the calculation.
- The cost of raising children: Based on Australian research, the formula incorporates a standardised cost for children, which increases with the number of children and their ages.
In Brisbane, as elsewhere in Australia, the calculation is reviewed annually to reflect any income or care arrangements changes.
Key Takeaway:
The formula ensures both parents contribute fairly to their child’s upbringing, adjusting payments to reflect income changes or shifts in care responsibility.
What Happens If Your Income Changes?
Changes in income can significantly impact your child support assessment. If your income increases or decreases, you should inform Services Australia to ensure the amount you pay or receive remains fair. Failure to report income changes could result in overpayment, underpayment, or arrears.
The process can be more complex if you’re self-employed or receive irregular income. In such cases, Services Australia may assess your income based on recent tax returns or other financial information.
Key Takeaway:
Constantly update your income details promptly to avoid complications with your child support obligations or entitlements.
How Does Parenting Time Affect Payments?
The time you and the other parent spend with your child is factored into the support calculation. Parenting arrangements are categorised into percentages, such as:
- 0–14% care: Minimal or no contact
- 15–34% care: Regular care, including some weekends
- 35–65% care: Shared care arrangements
- 66–100% care: Primary care
These percentages directly influence the amount you pay or receive. For example, if you share care evenly, the support amount may be significantly reduced or eliminated.
Key Takeaway: Parenting time directly impacts your financial contributions, so maintaining accurate records of your care arrangements is necessary for fair assessments.
Need a Lawyer?
What If You Can’t Agree on Child Support?
If you and the other parent cannot agree on child support, Services Australia can assist by conducting an administrative assessment. Alternatively, you may opt for a private agreement, which must be approved to ensure fairness.
In cases of disputes, legal advice may be beneficial. Brisbane family law specialists can help resolve conflicts or guide you through applying for changes to your assessment.
Key Takeaway: When disputes arise, you have access to administrative assessments and legal support to ensure fair outcomes for your child.
How Can You Make or Receive Payments?
Payments can be made in two primary ways:
- Through Services Australia: Known as “Child Support Collect,” this ensures secure payments.
- Privately: Parents agree on payment methods, such as direct bank transfers.
Using Services Australia offers additional safeguards, such as record-keeping and enforcement actions if payments are missed.
Key Takeaway:
You can choose the payment method that works best for your situation, but using a secure service like Child Support Collect provides peace of mind.
What If Circumstances Change?
Life changes, such as a new job, moving to another city, or changes in care arrangements, can affect your child support. In Brisbane, you can apply to have your assessment reviewed through a “Change of Assessment” process.
This process evaluates factors such as new expenses, changes in income, or other relevant circumstances to ensure the support amount remains appropriate.