Disclaimer: The material in this print-out relates to the law as it applies in the state of Victoria. It is intended as a general guide only. Readers should not act on the basis of any material in this print-out without getting legal advice about their own particular situations. Victoria Legal Aid disclaims any liability howsoever caused to any person in respect of any action taken in reliance on the contents of the publication.

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Disagreeing with a child support decision

If you disagree with a decision made by Services Australia about child support payments, you may be able to appeal to the Administrative Review Tribunal

If you don’t agree with a child support decision, you may be able to ask for a review of that decision.

You can get an internal, external or judicial review, depending on your circumstances.

Your options include:

  • An internal review of some decisions made by Services Australia. This is managed by someone who was not involved in making the original decision. For information about the process and time limits, refer to the Services Australia website – Objections to child support decisions.
  • An external review of some child support decisions to the Administrative Review Tribunal (ART). This is an independent tribunal. For information about applying and the review process visit the Administrative Review Tribunal website.
  • A judicial review or court appeal of an ART decision on legal questions only. The Child Support Guide on the Department of Social Services website has detailed information about how you can object, seek a review or appeal and apply to court.

Time limits

There are time limits to lodge a review or ‘objection’. If you plan to ask for a review of a child support decision, you should do this quickly. The time limit is usually 28 days from the day you get the child support decision. It’s important to remember that it can also take time to get help with child support.

More information

Other support

Find out how you can get other support for parenting arrangements, child contact and child support.

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