Change of assessment: Reason 4

The assessment is not fair because it does not take into account the income, earning capacity, property or financial resources of the children.

For income to be considered under this reason, the children must have sufficient income to reduce the need for parental support.

Both you and the paying parent may apply under this reason

Things I should know

• Income of a child does not include income tested pensions, allowances or benefits such as Austudy, Disability Support Pension or Youth Allowance.
• The income of the child must make the child support assessment significantly unfair. It does not usually include the child receiving pocket money or getting paid for an after-school or holiday job.
• To decide whether a child's income makes an assessment unfair, the income and financial position of both parents is considered.

Supporting documents

• Documents detailing the child's income such as pay slips, bank statements and trust account records.

When could I apply under this reason?

Example

You have shared care of your children and your oldest child lives with the paying parent, works full-time and earns income to support themselves.*

When could the other parent apply under this reason?

Example

Your child has inherited substantial assets that they are entitled to use.**

* If you believe that the child is self supporting and is no longer being financially supported by their parents, it may be appropriate to end the assessment for that child. Talk to CSA to discuss your options.

** The money must be accessible. For example, if money or property is in trust (from the grandparent's estate) until the child is 21 and not accessible until that time, it would not be considered because this money does not contribute to the ongoing daily care the child.

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