Child Support Lawyer

When parents separate, child support is often one of the most practical concerns to sort out early. It’s the ongoing financial contribution one parent makes towards the cost of raising a child, and it can be arranged either through a Services Australia assessment or through a private agreement between the parents.

Most child support arrangements start with a Services Australia assessment, which uses a formula based on both parents’ incomes, the amount of care each parent provides, and the costs of raising children at different ages. If you disagree with an assessment, whether because your income has changed, your care arrangements are different to what’s recorded, or you believe the assessment doesn’t reflect your circumstances, you can apply for a change of assessment. A child support lawyer can help you understand whether your situation meets the grounds for a review and prepare your application.

Parents can also agree to a private child support arrangement instead of relying solely on the Services Australia formula. These are set out in either a limited child support agreement or a binding child support agreement, with the binding option requiring both parties to receive independent legal advice before signing. We can advise you on which type of agreement suits your circumstances and draft or review the agreement on your behalf.

Child support is generally intended to cover the everyday costs of raising a child, including housing, food, clothing, education and healthcare. It isn’t taxed as income for the parent receiving it, and it isn’t tax-deductible for the parent paying it. Assessments are also periodically reviewed, and support generally continues until a child turns 18, though there are some circumstances where it can extend beyond that age, such as when a child is still completing secondary education.

If child support payments fall into arrears, or a parent is deliberately structuring their income to reduce their assessment, there are steps available to recover the amount owed. We can advise you on your options, whether that’s working with the Services Australia collection process or pursuing the matter through other legal avenues.

Based in Newcastle with a Sydney office, our family lawyers help clients across NSW resolve child support disputes and put workable agreements in place. If you have questions about a child support assessment, want to formalise a private agreement, or need advice on a dispute, contact NLS Law to discuss your circumstances with our team.