Change of assessment: Reason 8

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

Both you and the paying parent may apply under this reason

Things I should know

• If the applicant's income is at least 15 per cent less than the income used to assess child support, they may be able to make an estimate of their income to be used in the assessment. This is an easier way to change the assessment. Contact CSA to find out how.
• The total financial circumstances of both parents will be considered.
• Earning capacity decisions are based on individual circumstances. The employment situation of both parents and reasons for any decrease or increase in income is considered.
• If the applicant is unemployed, CSA will look at the circumstances of the termination of employment including whether it was voluntary or as a result of a redundancy. The ability and willingness of the parent to secure work, considering their age, skills, health and job-seeking efforts are also considered.
• The assessment will not automatically be changed just because the applicant has a reduced income. Having a reduced income does not necessarily mean that the assessment is not fair and that the paying parent should not continue to pay the same amount of child support.
• Some non taxable incomes such as some defence pensions, salary sacrifice and other fringe benefits may be added to the income.

Supporting documents

• Proof of income, e.g. employer's address, profit and loss statements (if the applicant is self employed), company/partnership returns, payslips, termination statements, statement of salary package.
• Documents demonstrating job loss and reasons for job loss, e.g. medical evidence, redundancy notice, employment separation certificate.
• Information of attempts to gain employment, e.g. Job Seeker Diary, registration with Job Agency.
• Evidence of inability to earn an income, e.g. medical report/certificate.
• Details of any assets that the applicant owns including:
  • any money in a bank or credit union account
  • motor vehicles
  • shares
  • details of any property owned and any available estimates of its value.

When could I apply under this reason?

Example

The paying parent has received a lump sum payment such as superannuation that was not taken into account in the property settlement.

When could the other parent apply under this reason?

Example

The paying parent believes your income has changed significantly since the assessment was made.

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