From 1 July 2008, if a paying parent has a very low income but is not in receipt of a Centrelink benefit, the minimum annual rate has been replaced by a fixed annual rate of approximately $23 per week per child (capped at 3 times the fixed rate or approximately $69 per week).

The fixed annual rate is not payable if the paying parent has 35% (or more) care of the child, because it is accepted that they are contributing to the costs of the child through the care provided.

This measure was introduced to identify those cases where a payer’s low taxable income was not an accurate reflection of their ability or inability to pay child support.

If a parent wishes to dispute a fixed rate assessment s/he should contact the Department of Human Services - Child Support on 131 272. The Department will require further information to enable the officer to make a decision.