The Child Support Scheme aims to ensure that the children of separated parents are adequately supported according to their parent’s capacity to do so.
AUSTRALIAN GOVERNMENT BENEFITS
The Australian Government recognises the special contribution that grandparents make to families and the community and provide a range of benefits to assist eligible claimants. The information provided is a guide only, due to its complexity. Any matters relating to assistance in respect of children entering or leaving care should be dealt with by appointment with the Family Assistance Office. Family Assistance Offices are located within Medicare and Centrelink offices and Australian Taxation Shopfronts.
Child Support
WHAT IS CHILD SUPPORT?
Both parents are responsible for providing financial support for their children. The Child Support Scheme aims to ensure that the children of separated parents are adequately supported according to their parent’s capacity to do so. The Child Support Agency (CSA) administers the Scheme, including:
- registering cases;
- assessing child support payable;
- collecting payments where requested; and
- providing information on child support matters.
As the primary carer of my grandchild, am I eligible for Child Support?
You may be eligible to receive child support payments if you care for the child for at least 110 nights in the 12 months following an application for a child support assessment. For more information about your individual circumstances, contact CSA on 131 272.
HOW DO I APPLY FOR CHILD SUPPORT?
The easiest way is by calling CSA on 131 272. You can also apply online at www.csa.gov.au, or by lodging an application form by mail or in person. Application forms are available from CSA, Centrelink or a Family Assistance Office. When completed, you can return it to any of these offices.
One of my grandchild’s parents is receiving Child Support Payments, but I am the child’s primary care provider – what can I do?
You may still be able to receive child support. If the parent already receiving child support does not consent to the child being in your care, CSA will investigate further before making a decision.
Can I apply for Child Support if I do not know where my grandchild’s parents are living?
You can still apply for child support in these circumstances. CSA may ask you for information that will help locate the child’s parents, such as previous addresses and details of their employer.
Where can I get more information about Child Support?
You can call the CSA on 131 272 or contact them through their website www.csa.gov.au. To speak in a language other than English call 131 450. If you are hearing-impaired call 133 677 or 1800 631 187 (Free call ™).
The information above was provided by the Australian Government Department of Families, Community Services and Indigenous Affairs.
