Services Australia (Child Support)
Services Australia runs Australia’s child support system. It handles applications, calculates payments using a national formula, and manages how money moves between parents.
Most people deal with Services Australia online through myGov or by calling 131 272. Once a case is set up, the system continues automatically, with payments requested, tracked and enforced.
Child support payments
Services Australia uses a formula-based method to determine child support payments. It applies the child support legislation to each case, calculates the amount, and manages payments. The process works as follows:
- Apply through myGov or by phone
- An assessment is made using income and care
- A payment amount is set
- Payments are made directly or collected by the agency
- The assessment updates over time as details change
Most cases are managed online. Payments are ongoing, and Services Australia can collect or enforce payments where needed, including through employer deductions.
Contact Child Support
To contact Child Support, most people use myGov or call Services Australia at 131 272.
- Fast administration options are available online through myGov, where you can update details, attach evidence, submit an income estimate, and check payments.
- Calling may involve wait times, especially during peak periods, but may be useful for complex or urgent issues
- You can also visit or book an appointment at a Services Australia centre, available nationwide.
Choose how payments are made
Payments are handled under one of two methods:
- Agency Collect — Services Australia collects and transfers payments
- Private Collect — parents transfer payments directly
If payments fall behind under Agency Collect, Services Australia will step in automatically. They may order employer deductions or pursue other enforcement action to recover unpaid amounts.
Child Support Agency (CSA)
Services Australia’s administration of child support replaced the role of the former Child Support Agency in 2011. While the name changed, the system itself remained largely the same.
Child support operates alongside other government services, but it follows its own legal framework and assessment process.