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Objections

When CSA makes a decision that affects you, we generally inform you of the decision in writing. If you do not agree with our decision or you believe CSA has acted on wrong information, you may be able to lodge an objection.

Both parents in a case are able to lodge objections. In most instances, if the other parent lodges an objection, you will get the opportunity to reply.

What should I do first?

You should read any letter and attachments carefully and contact a CSA Customer Service Officer on 131 272 if you don’t understand the content or think the information may be wrong.

When can I make an objection?

You can object if you do not agree with any of the following:

• CSA's decision to register or not register a child support case for collection.
• The recorded details of a case registered for collection by CSA or our decision to change those details.
• CSA's decision to credit or not credit a non-agency payment .
• Setting a particular date as the starting date for the payment of child support.
• CSA's decision to collect arrears from a particular date.
• A decision about collection that results in a debt that is more than six months old remaining unpaid (receiving parents only).
• CSA's decision to refuse to accept an application for administrative assessment.
• CSA's decision to accept an application for administrative assessment.
• The particulars of an administrative assessment.
• CSA's decision to make or refuse to accept a child support agreement.
• CSA's decision to remit or refuse to remit an estimate penalty.
• CSA's decision to make or refuse to make a change of assessment determination.
• CSA's decision to accept or not accept an estimate.
• CSA's decision to refuse to reduce the rate of child support to nil.
• CSA's decision to refuse to extend an assessment or agreement after the child reaches 18 (receiving parents only).

How do I lodge an objection?

• You must object within 28 days of receiving our decision. If you live overseas in a reciprocating jurisdiction, you have 90 days to object. If you have a good reason, we may be able to accept a late objection.
• You must object in writing, telling CSA what you are objecting to and why. Your written objection should include:
  • the date of the decision and the date you received the letter advising you of the decision
  • what you are objecting to
  • detailed reasons why you think CSA’s decision is incorrect.
• It is important that you have accurate, detailed records which can support your objection and copies of these should be included in your objection.
• Mail your written objection to the CSA office closest to you.

What happens after I or the other parent lodges an objection?

In most instances, when CSA gets an objection, we will tell the other parent about the reason for the objection and give them the opportunity to reply—the same response periods apply.

A case officer might also talk to both of you to try to solve the matter.

While your case is being considered, CSA's original decision still applies. After consideration CSA will contact both parties explaining the outcome, including any change to the assessment if applicable. CSA aims to make a decision about the objection within 60 days and will advise you and the other parent in writing of the outcome. If one parent lives overseas, this may take up to 120 days.

What if I disagree with the objection decision?

If you do not agree with the outcome of the objection, you have the following options:

• For objection decisions made from 1 January 2007, you can apply to the Social Security Appeals Tribunal (SSAT) for a review of the decision. SSAT is an external and independent tribunal that can review decisions made by CSA.
• Applying to the Administrative Appeals Tribunal (AAT) for review of decisions related to
  • revoking or not revoking a Departure Prohibition Order (DPO)
  • issuing or to refusing to issue a departure authorisation certificate
  • requiring a parent subject to a DPO to provide security for their return to Australia
  • reviewing an SSAT decision to refuse an application for an extension of time.
• Taking a matter to court for review in certain circumstances, including:
  • CSA objection decisions made before 1 January 2007
  • parentage decisions
  • if you have other matters already in court
  • to request a child support agreement be set aside
  • complex Change of Assessment decisions
  • asking the court to enforce a child support debt if you are a receiving parent.

More information

For more information about your rights if you don't agree with a CSA decision, read the Your rights following CSA decisions brochure.

For more information on how to apply to the SSAT, you can call SSAT on 1800 011 140 or visit the website www.ssat.gov.au

For more information on how to apply to the AAT, you can call AAT on 1300 366 700 or visit the website www.aat.gov.au

For more information about how to apply to the courts, you can call the Family Law Courts on 1300 352 000 or visit the website www.familylawcourts.gov.au

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