About Us
Child Support Australia is an independent guide to Australia’s child support system.
We are not affiliated with government or legal institutions and are privately funded. Child Support Australia provides a selective, research-based resource for parents and policymakers.
Our work is designed to help parents understand their obligations, avoid common mistakes, and navigate the system with greater confidence. The site also contributes to broader discussions about how the system operates and may evolve over time.
Here you’ll find clear analysis, practical tools, and proposals focused on reducing conflict and supporting better outcomes for children.
Dr Andrew Lancaster
CSA Project Leader
Child Support Australia is privately funded with the backing of the Unicurve company. The project publishes research-based articles and practical resources used by parents, advocates, and policymakers.
Our Mission
We aim to provide clear, accurate information about Australia’s child support system and highlight areas where outcomes may be improved.
Our work includes analysis of the existing formula, the development of alternative models, and discussion of potential reforms. These contributions are intended to support informed discussion about the system and its future direction.
Our Services
Online Complaints Forum
Dr Andrew Lancaster responds directly to parent questions, drawing on real cases and long-term system experience.
Guidance and Education
Articles, resources, and video content explain how the system operates, including common challenges and areas of complexity.
Child Support Calculator
A widely used tool that helps parents estimate payments and understand how changes in income or care affect assessments.
Project Lead
Dr Andrew Lancaster Former policy strategist in the Commonwealth Public Service. PhD in Economics, Australian National University.
Research and Publications
In 2021, Child Support Australia presented reform proposals to the Family Law Inquiry at Parliament House. A recording of this submission is available on our YouTube channel.
Transparency and Independence
Child Support Australia operates independently of government agencies, courts, and legal service providers. We do not receive funding from Services Australia, the Family Court, or private law firms.
Our content is produced without commercial pressure from advertisers, referral partners, or advocacy groups. Where tools or resources are provided, they are designed to explain how the system works, not to promote particular outcomes or services.
Articles are based on legislation, publicly available data, case patterns observed over many years, and direct engagement with parents navigating the system. Where opinions or reform proposals are expressed, they are clearly identified and supported by evidence and reasoning.
This site is intended to inform, not replace, professional advice. Parents are encouraged to use the information here to better understand their position and engage more effectively with the system.