Child Support Lawyer Wollongong

Sorting out child support is one of the most important financial steps after separation. At Wallen Family Law, we help parents across Wollongong, Shellharbour, Kiama and the wider Illawarra region understand their child support obligations and create arrangements that are fair, practical, and in the best interests of the children.

How Child Support Is Calculated

In most cases, child support in NSW is managed by Services Australia (Child Support Agency). The Agency uses a formula that looks at:

  • Each parent’s income,

  • The percentage of care each parent provides (overnights), and

  • The age and number of children.

This produces an administrative assessment — the standard starting point for child support. Parents can choose to have Services Australia collect the payments, or make private arrangements once the assessment is in place.

The standard formula doesn’t always reflect real life. You can apply to change an assessment if:

  • A child has high medical, schooling, or extracurricular expenses

  • A parent earns additional income through a company, trust, or business structure that has not been disclosed to Child Support

  • There are significant other costs (such as travel expenses) to maintain contact with a child

  • Other circumstances make the assessment unfair.

These cases can be complex — legal advice can help you prepare the right evidence to support your application.

Changing an Assessment

Binding Child Support Agreements

Parents can also enter into Binding Child Support Agreements. These give families more flexibility than the standard assessment and require both parents to receive independent legal advice before signing. They are legally enforceable and can set out tailored arrangements such as:

  • Payment of school fees or private health insurance,

  • Covering extracurricular activities like sport or music

  • Lump sum payments of child support or periodic (weekly) payments at a set amount.

A properly drafted Binding Agreement gives certainty and can reduce disputes long term.

Enforcement and Non-Payment of Child Support

If child support is not paid, there are options:

  • Services Australia can enforce payments through employer deductions or through the ATO.

  • Binding Child Support Agreements can be enforced through the Court if necessary.

It’s important to act quickly if payments stop, so children’s needs continue to be met.

Fixed-Fee Child Support Services in Wollongong

At Wallen Family Law, we offer fixed-fee services for drafting or reviewing Binding Child Support Agreements. We also provide clear advice on change of assessment applications and child support disputes.

Book a free 15-minute chat with our Wollongong office today to discuss your child support options.