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Child Support

Safeguarding your child's well-being through child support

With our expertise in child support matters, we are committed to helping you navigate the complexities of child support arrangements, ensuring your child’s lifestyle and stability are safeguarded for a brighter and more promising future.

Child Support Lawyers

We can help you anywhere in Australia

Child support plays a crucial role in ensuring the financial well-being of children. We recognise the significance of providing comprehensive advice and options to our clients when it comes to child support. We are here to guide you through the process and help you achieve the best possible outcome.

In most cases, child support matters can be resolved outside of the court system through negotiation and agreement between the parents. We will work closely with you to ensure that the correct amount of child support is being paid, taking into account your overall circumstances and the specific needs of your children. Our goal is to facilitate a fair and reasonable agreement regarding payment amounts and any additional financial contributions.

Our process

Book a call or consult

Start with a free 15-min discovery call, then have a comprehensive 90-min initial consultation.

Make a plan and action it

We'll collaborate to develop a plan, and work to finalise your matter cost-effectively.

Reach a resolution

We'll adaptively and efficiently reach a resolution aligned to your needs.

Drafting the child support agreement

If an agreement is reached, we can assist in drafting a child support agreement that clearly outlines the terms and conditions. This agreement can be registered with the Department of Human Services – Child Support, providing an official record of the agreed-upon arrangements and ensuring their enforceability.

In situations where reaching an agreement is challenging or not possible, we can provide guidance on preparing and submitting an application to the Department of Human Services – Child Support. They will assess the application and determine the appropriate amount of child support payable based on their guidelines.


Who is required to pay child support?

Both parents have a legal obligation to contribute to the financial support of their child or children, regardless of their living arrangements or the time spent with the children. Whether you were married, in a de facto relationship, or never lived together, both parents are responsible for sharing the costs associated with raising your child or children.

Our experienced family lawyers are well-versed in handling child support matters and can provide the necessary advice and support throughout the process. We are committed to ensuring that your child’s financial needs are met and that you have a clear understanding of your rights and responsibilities when it comes to child support.

Do I need a lawyer?

Child support matters can be complex, and individual circumstances may vary. It is recommended to consult with a qualified family lawyer or contact the Department of Human Services (Child Support) for personalised advice and guidance based on your specific situation and jurisdiction.

Throughout the process, our experienced family lawyers will provide guidance, support, and expert representation, helping you navigate child support matters and ensure the financial well-being of your children.

FAQs

Child support in Australia is calculated based on the income of both parents, the number of children, and the percentage of care each parent provides. The Department of Human Services (Child Support) uses a formula to determine the amount of child support payable by the non-residential parent.
Yes, parents can reach a private child support agreement without involving the Child Support Agency. This can be done through a binding child support agreement or a limited child support agreement, which outlines the agreed-upon financial arrangements.
If a parent fails to meet their child support obligations, enforcement actions can be taken by the Child Support Agency. This may include garnishing wages, intercepting tax refunds, or pursuing legal action to recover the unpaid child support.
Child support arrangements can be changed or reviewed if there is a significant change in circumstances. This can include changes in income, care arrangements, or other relevant factors. It is advisable to notify the Child Support Agency and seek legal advice if you believe a change is necessary.
Australia has reciprocal agreements with several countries to assist in the enforcement of child support payments. The Child Support Agency can work with international authorities to recover child support from a parent residing overseas, subject to the specific country's laws and agreements in place.

Our Locations

Visit us at one of our office locations, or meet us virtually from anywhere in Australia.

Central Coast

Suite 2.10. Platinum
Level 2, 4 Ilya Avenue
ERINA NSW 2250

Northern Beaches

Suite 501
Level 5, 20 Bungan Street
MONA VALE NSW 2103

North Shore

The Zenith, Tower A
Level 9, 821 Pacific Hwy
CHATSWOOD NSW 2067

Start your journey today with a free discovery call

Arrange your complimentary call with our experienced family lawyers to explore how we can assist you. Navigating with empathy and expertise, we listen, understand, and guide you towards a resolution.

Specialising only in Family Law

Testimonials

Read our client feedback

Melinda M
Melinda M

Central Coast

They have seen and heard me cry, get angry, and every emotion in between that you experience going through a separation. I can't thank Georgia enough for her empathy and experience in guiding me through this foreign situation.

Adele F
Adele F

Central Coast

I am immensely grateful for the outstanding service and support I received from Orbell's Family Law Firm. They are not just legal experts; they are compassionate advocates who genuinely care about their clients' well-being.

Daniel S
Daniel S

Central Coast

I had a great experience with Orbell. Sheree was great in getting my case rolling then Savanna took over and seen it through till the end. Savanna was great, easy to work with and fiercely had my back through the entire proceedings.

Fay D
Fay D

Central Coast

I am grateful to Sheree and Georgia, who were there to assist when required. Kate knows all the ‘ins and outs’ of Family Law, and I honestly can’t thank her enough for everything she has done for me. I highly recommend Orbell Family Lawyers.

Masani O
Masani O

Central Coast

All my dealings with Orbell Family Lawyers have been extremely positive, and the team are professional, genuine people who look after and listen to you, walk beside you, and to help you to sort out your matter fast and precisely.

Van E
Van E

Not only was Sheree extremely knowledgeable, she would 'check in' with me to make sure I knew what was happening at all times. I am proud to be a client. Her legal representation restored my faith in the justice system.

Stephen L
Stephen L

Sheree had tremendous strategies in place, and was extremely cool & calm in her approach and in general. Sheree was very well-organised, and was in complete control of the case, it felt. I had complete confidence with her in charge.

Mirta S
Mirta S

Sydney

The team were incredibly supportive and helpful at a most difficult time. I have every confidence in recommending Orbell Family Lawyers to anyone seeking professional expertise with a very caring and supportive overlay.

Cynthia B
Cynthia B

Sydney

From the moment I met Sheree I knew she was the lawyer for me. She is kind and understanding but also strong and confident. She made me feel at ease. She knows her way around the family law system too! Thanks Sheree.

Dorothy G
Dorothy G

Sydney

Great family lawyer, I have had the pleasure off working with Sheree. She is very professional in every way and caring, I would recommend her to anyone looking for a fantastic family lawyer.

Jessica S
Jessica S

Sydney

Sheree went above and beyond to help me agree on my property settlement with my ex. She made the process quick and stress free. I recommend Sheree to anyone who asks me who I should use for family law advice.

Steve N
Steve N

Sydney

The team at Orbell Family Lawyers are professional and know their stuff. The advice was thorough and straight to the point. My kids and I have been able to move on with our lives and I can’t thank the team enough.

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Meet our award-winning team

Our award-winning team stands ready to guide you through the legal process and support you every step of the way.

Solicitor Director

Sheree Orbell

Practice Leader

Kate O’Grady

Practice Leader – Northern Beaches

Janine Goodwin

Practice Leader

Bronwyn Dwyer

Senior Associate

Ollie Najdenska

Senior Associate

Emmy Langmaid

Senior Associate

Amelia Cox

Senior Associate

Lucus Fiorenza

Senior Associate

Savanna Bull

Solicitor

Elizabeth Aquilina 

Solicitor

Lily Sanders

Solicitor

Georgia Spencer

Paralegal

Mia Eddy

Legal Secretary

Michelle McKinna

Legal Secretary

Nerida Wright

Legal Secretary

Lucie Lister

Legal Secretary

Nicolette Fischer

Legal Secretary

Summah Boyd

Commercial Director

Shayne Orbell

Finance

Jessica Fitt

Accounts and Administration Assistant

Donna Coffey

Discover our services

Our award-winning team stands ready to guide you through the legal process and support you every step of the way.

Financial matters
Divorce & separation
Children & parenting
Splitting assets
Dispute resolution
Child support
Prenups & agreements
Spouse maintenance
International family law
Mediation services

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Our Story

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Our Process

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Our fees

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FAQs

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