From paying parents overseas
When a paying parent lives overseas (in a reciprocating
jurisdiction) and we have current contact details, the CSA’s preferred option is to work
with the parent to establish regular voluntary payments.
Where this is not successful, action may be taken to transfer the case to an overseas jurisdiction
for collection. The CSA continues to work with a number of countries to improve processes for transferring
cases for collection. Some countries require child support debts to be recognised through their court
system before they can be enforced, a process which is often time consuming.
If a case is transferred overseas for collection the CSA has limited control over the collection process
and is reliant on the co-operation of the overseas authority to collect a child support debt on the CSA’s
behalf.
Where we do not have the contact details of a paying parent who is believed to be living overseas
the CSA will take steps to locate them. The ability of overseas authorities to assist with locating
paying parents is limited. It is a difficult process which relies on information supplied by the receiving
parent as well as the available cooperation and resources of overseas authorities. Where it is not possible
to locate the paying parent, the CSA may not be able to take any further action.
Enforcement systems in overseas countries are not always timely or effective. Many of the collection
powers available in Australia (for example salary deductions) are not available in other countries.
Parents should be aware that where payments can be established, there is often a considerable delay before
regular child support is received.