The breakdown of a relationship is never easy. And when it comes to child support and maintenance, each situation is unique and there isn’t one straightforward answer.
But no matter where you are in the stage of your journey, we can help. At AFLAS, we have easy-to-understand resources you can read and download, and trusted advisors that can help you with specific knowledge.
In Australia, children are entitled to protection and both parents have the responsibility to financially support their children after a de facto separation or divorce. These are ongoing, and they apply even if you are re-partnered, re-married or have never lived together.
Child support usually requires an application to Services Australia, where the amount of support payable is calculated based on a complex formula. This will determine which parent needs to pay child support and/or maintenance and how much.
If you can’t reach an agreement with your ex-partner, you may have to go to Court. But before you talk to a lawyer, perhaps you can consider talking to a mediator to help you reach an amicable agreement with your former partner.
Avoiding paying child support, misusing it or providing false information is a form of family violence. From advice on how to collect unpaid child support to information about how to change your assessment in special circumstances, we can help.
We know you want to give your children the best quality of life. And our mission is to make sure that your children are protected.