How much child support will I pay or receive?

Child support payments depend on both parents' incomes, care time, number of children, and their ages. For 2025, the minimum rate is $534 per year and the fixed rate is $1,768 per child per year. Most payments fall between these amounts and higher calculations based on the full formula. The median payment in Australia is around $4,000 to $5,000 per child annually, but your situation may differ. We can review your circumstances and provide an accurate estimate.

Can I reduce my child support payments?

You can reduce child support payments by reporting income decreases within 28 days, increasing your care time with the children, applying for a Change of Assessment if special circumstances apply, or entering a Binding Child Support Agreement with independent legal advice. Don't simply stop paying or pay less without proper process, as this creates debt and potential enforcement action. We can advise on legitimate ways to reduce your obligations.

What if my ex-partner isn't paying child support?

If your ex-partner isn't paying, contact the child support agency about enforcement through employer withholding, Centrelink deductions, or tax refund intercepts. If using private collect, switch to child support collect for stronger enforcement. When standard enforcement isn't working, we can take legal action including urgent recovery applications, contempt proceedings, or other remedies. Keep detailed records of all missed payments. We can help you recover what you're owed.

Do I need a child custody lawyer for child support matters?

You need a child custody lawyer for Binding Child Support Agreements (legal requirement), disputing assessments or AAT appeals, complex income situations involving businesses or trusts, enforcement action through courts, or when the other parent has legal representation. Basic applications generally don't require a lawyer. A Sydney child custody lawyer can handle both parenting and child support issues together, which is useful since care arrangements directly affect child support calculations.

How long does child support last?

Child support lasts until your child turns 18 (if they've finished school), or until they finish secondary school if still studying full-time (up to end of year they turn 19). For children with disabilities who can't support themselves, the court can order indefinite child support. Payments also end if your child marries, enters a de facto relationship, or comes to live with you full-time.

What if my income changes significantly?

If your income changes, report it within 28 days to update your assessment. Income increases raise child support; decreases lower it but only if reported. If you lose your job, you may pay minimum rate ($534/year) or fixed rate. The agency can make provisional assessments based on current income rather than waiting for your next tax return. We can help you report changes promptly and ensure correct updates.

Can we agree on a different amount than the standard assessment?

You can agree on different amounts through a private arrangement (not legally binding), Limited Child Support Agreement (must equal or exceed assessment), or Binding Child Support Agreement (can be more or less, requires independent legal advice). Private arrangements may affect Family Tax Benefit entitlements. We can draft agreements that meet your family's needs while protecting your legal rights.

What's the difference between child support and child custody arrangements?

Child support is financial contributions calculated based on income and care time to help cover costs of raising children. Child custody (parenting arrangements) is where children live and time spent with each parent, worked out through agreement, mediation, or court orders. They connect because care percentage affects child support calculations - changes to parenting arrangements require updating your child support assessment. We handle both matters together.

Does child support cover private school fees?

Child support assessments cover all child-raising costs including education, but private school fees are often expensive and not fully covered. Options include: paying fees directly as prescribed non-agency payments, applying for Change of Assessment, including fees in child support agreements, or getting court orders. Many parents find it works best when one parent pays school fees directly. We can help structure the best arrangement for your situation.

Can I get child support if we were never married?

You can get child support regardless of marital status - the only requirement is being a legal parent (biological, adoptive, or through surrogacy). What doesn't matter: whether you were married, relationship length, living arrangements, or if pregnancy was planned. The assessment works the same way for all parents. DNA testing may be required if paternity is disputed. We can assist with establishing parentage and securing child support for your child.

Child Support Lawyer

We are dedicated to helping you navigate the complexities of child support

Child support matters can feel overwhelming when you're dealing with separation or divorce. Whether you need to secure payments for your children or understand your payment obligations, having experienced legal advice makes a real difference.

At Norton Law Group, our family lawyers help parents across Sydney with child support assessments, agreements, disputes, and enforcement. We understand every family's situation is different, so we take time to learn your circumstances before recommending the best approach.

Speak to us today to begin your journey

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Understanding Child Support

What is Child Support?
Child support refers to the financial contributions made by one parent to the other for the costs associated with raising their children. This support is essential in ensuring that children's needs are met, regardless of the parents' living arrangements or relationship status
Legal Responsibility for Child Support
Both parents have a legal obligation to contribute to the financial support of their children. This duty persists irrespective of whether the parents were married, in a de facto relationship, or never cohabitated.
Types of Child Support Arrangements
Informal Agreements:

Private Arrangements: Parents can agree on child support payments without formal intervention. However, these agreements are not legally enforceable.

Child Support Assessment:

Services Australia: Either parent can apply for a child support assessment, where Services Australia calculates the amount payable based on a statutory formula.

Child Support Agreements:

Binding Agreements: Legally binding agreements that require legal advice before signing.
Limited Agreements: Formal agreement

Application Process

Parents: Either parent can apply, regardless of whether they will be paying or receiving support.
Non-Parent Carers: Legal guardians, grandparents, or other family members with primary care of the child can also apply.

Documentation:

Proof of Parentage: Provide evidence such as birth certificates, statutory declarations, or court orders.
Financial Information: Submit details of both parents' incomes and care arrangements.

Submission:

Online or Phone: Applications can be submitted online via myGov or by calling the Child Support Enquiry Line.

Services Australia uses a specific formula to calculate child support, considering:

Parents' Incomes: Combined income of both parents.

Child’s Age: The age of the child.
Care Arrangements: The amount of time each parent cares for the child.
Other Dependents: Any other children the parents are financially responsible for.

Objecting to a Child Support Decision

Grounds for Objection

Assessment Accuracy: If you believe the assessment does not accurately reflect incomes or care arrangements.

Special Circumstances: Situations warranting a reassessment due to significant changes in circumstances.

Process

Timeframe: Objections must be filed within 28 days of receiving the decision.

Submission: Written objections with supporting documentation must be submitted to Services Australia.

Changes in Circumstances

Notifying Changes

Timely Notification: Changes in income, care arrangements, or living circumstances must be reported to Services Australia within 28 days.

Impact: Failing to notify can result in overpayments, underpayments, or debts to be repaid.

Enforcement of Child Support Payments

Collection Methods

Services Australia: Can collect payments directly, ensuring timely and full payment.

Private Collection: Parents may choose to manage payments privately, but this can complicate enforcement if payments are missed.

Legal Actions

Non-Payment: If a parent fails to pay, enforcement actions such as wage garnishments, bank account seizures, and legal proceedings can be initiated.

Legal Advice and Support

Why Seek Legal Advice?

Expert Guidance: Understanding your rights and obligations ensures compliance and fairness.

Dispute Resolution: Legal advice helps in resolving disputes and negotiating fair agreements.

Our Services

Comprehensive Support: From application to enforcement, our lawyers provide thorough guidance and representation.

Personalised Advice: Tailored legal advice to suit your unique circumstances

Affiliates & Recognitions

Navigating Child Support with Confidence

At Norton Law Group, we are committed to providing expert legal support in all aspects of child support. Whether you need to secure payments or manage your obligations, our dedicated team is here to help you navigate the complexities of child support law with confidence. Contact us today to schedule your free consultation and take the first step towards ensuring the financial stability and well-being of your children.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much child support will I pay or receive?
Child support payments depend on both parents' incomes, care time, number of children, and their ages. For 2025, the minimum rate is $534 per year and the fixed rate is $1,768 per child per year. Most payments fall between these amounts and higher calculations based on the full formula. The median payment in Australia is around $4,000 to $5,000 per child annually, but your situation may differ. We can review your circumstances and provide an accurate estimate.
Can I reduce my child support payments?
You can reduce child support payments by reporting income decreases within 28 days, increasing your care time with the children, applying for a Change of Assessment if special circumstances apply, or entering a Binding Child Support Agreement with independent legal advice. Don't simply stop paying or pay less without proper process, as this creates debt and potential enforcement action. We can advise on legitimate ways to reduce your obligations.
What if my ex-partner isn't paying child support?
If your ex-partner isn't paying, contact the child support agency about enforcement through employer withholding, Centrelink deductions, or tax refund intercepts. If using private collect, switch to child support collect for stronger enforcement. When standard enforcement isn't working, we can take legal action including urgent recovery applications, contempt proceedings, or other remedies. Keep detailed records of all missed payments. We can help you recover what you're owed.
Do I need a child custody lawyer for child support matters?
You need a child custody lawyer for Binding Child Support Agreements (legal requirement), disputing assessments or AAT appeals, complex income situations involving businesses or trusts, enforcement action through courts, or when the other parent has legal representation. Basic applications generally don't require a lawyer. A Sydney child custody lawyer can handle both parenting and child support issues together, which is useful since care arrangements directly affect child support calculations.
How long does child support last?
Child support lasts until your child turns 18 (if they've finished school), or until they finish secondary school if still studying full-time (up to end of year they turn 19). For children with disabilities who can't support themselves, the court can order indefinite child support. Payments also end if your child marries, enters a de facto relationship, or comes to live with you full-time.

What if my income changes significantly?
If your income changes, report it within 28 days to update your assessment. Income increases raise child support; decreases lower it but only if reported. If you lose your job, you may pay minimum rate ($534/year) or fixed rate. The agency can make provisional assessments based on current income rather than waiting for your next tax return. We can help you report changes promptly and ensure correct updates.
Can we agree on a different amount than the standard assessment?
You can agree on different amounts through a private arrangement (not legally binding), Limited Child Support Agreement (must equal or exceed assessment), or Binding Child Support Agreement (can be more or less, requires independent legal advice). Private arrangements may affect Family Tax Benefit entitlements. We can draft agreements that meet your family's needs while protecting your legal rights.
What's the difference between child support and child custody arrangements?
Child support is financial contributions calculated based on income and care time to help cover costs of raising children. Child custody (parenting arrangements) is where children live and time spent with each parent, worked out through agreement, mediation, or court orders. They connect because care percentage affects child support calculations - changes to parenting arrangements require updating your child support assessment. We handle both matters together.
Does child support cover private school fees?
Child support assessments cover all child-raising costs including education, but private school fees are often expensive and not fully covered. Options include: paying fees directly as prescribed non-agency payments, applying for Change of Assessment, including fees in child support agreements, or getting court orders. Many parents find it works best when one parent pays school fees directly. We can help structure the best arrangement for your situation.
Can I get child support if we were never married?
You can get child support regardless of marital status - the only requirement is being a legal parent (biological, adoptive, or through surrogacy). What doesn't matter: whether you were married, relationship length, living arrangements, or if pregnancy was planned. The assessment works the same way for all parents. DNA testing may be required if paternity is disputed. We can assist with establishing parentage and securing child support for your child.