In most cases, support for children under 18 is determined outside the Court system by administrative assessment under the Child Support (Assessment) Act 1989.

The amount of support is determined in accordance with a fixed legislative formula based on the income of each of the parents. Parents are obliged to financially support their children.

The Act provides for a departure from administrative assessment in a range of circumstances. In those cases a parent is usually required to first make an application for change of assessment to the Child Support Agency. Some decisions can be reviewed independently by appealing to the Social Security Appeals Tribunal (SSAT), the Administrative Appeals Tribunal (AAT), or a Court, depending on the circumstances of the case.

To gain an idea about what your rights and obligations are please visit Department of Human Services website's Parent's Guide to Child Support.

For an appointments to see our family and divorce lawyers please call Melbourne 03 9629 7411; or Mount Waverley 03 9550 4600.

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Testimonials

""Evan was an excellent family lawyer and a crucial support throughout my case. Referred to by a friend, choosing him was one of the best decisions I made. He had a remarkable ability to calm my nerves and made me feel completely unjudged. I trusted him completely due to his patience, empathy, and meticulous attention to detail from the very beginning. He listened carefully, explained complex matters clearly (often repeating them as needed due to my state of mind), and simplified everything right down for me. His consistent reassurance and guidance through each new development were invaluable during my time of anxiety. I couldn't recommend him highly enough. At HOCW, my experience remained exceptional. I received clear, actionable advice throughout, which significantly contributed to a smooth and reassuring legal process. Madison, who also assisted with my case, was incredibly kind, approachable, and responsive to all my emails and inquiries. She handled my files with great care and clarity, which was especially important to me during a period of uncertainty and stress. I am deeply grateful for the support and assistance provided by both Madison and Evan throughout this legal journey.""

M.A. - Family Law Client

"I am so thankful for the help and support that I was provided by Evan and his team during my financial settlement. Evan was incredibly responsive, professional and made sure I was well informed and kept updated throughout the process. The team were extremely empathetic and understanding throughout, and I am grateful for all of the support they provided. I would highly recommend Evan and his team for family law matters."

Family Law Client

"Emmalaura is a highly knowledgeable and efficient lawyer. She came highly recommended by a family friend and I am so grateful she was recommended to me. I used Emmaluara to file my divorce and settle assets. Her wealth of knowledge made the process seamless and stress free. Emmalaura was extremely patient and caring when listening to all my concerns. Initially I felt daunted by the whole process, however Emmalaura’s compassionate nature and knowledge made me feel at ease. I was very grateful she was my lawyer."

A.K. - Family Law Client

"My husband and I engaged Emmalaura for a complex family matter. We are eternally grateful to this wonderful lawyer who fought relentlessly to ensure our children’s best interests. Emmalaura is extremely knowledgeable in Family Law, with many years of experience. Our family matter was notably stressful and Emmalaura’s compassion and patience was wonderful. It felt as though you were speaking to a friend. Emmalaura was always patient in listening to our concerns and keeping us calm throughout the entire process. Her responses to all our emails (which were quite lengthy at times) were prompt and efficient. Emmalaura was always there for whatever we needed. Emmalaura stayed focused on the best interests of the children and this was apparent in the final result. It is evident that Emmalaura loves what she does as her passion for Family Law shines through her work and when dealing with clients. Emmalaura is not just any family lawyer, but the epitome of family law. We are indebted to her."

M & A - Family Law Clients

"...I am delighted with my whole Hicks Oakley Chessell Williams experience and would have no hesitation in recommending and referring your expertise. Thanks again for your collective determination in achieving a most successful financial outcome."

Geoff, Mulgrave

"Let me take this opportunity to express my heartfelt thanks as I don’t know how I would have got to where I am today, without you. I wouldn’t hesitate in recommending you and your team at Hicks Oakley Chessell Williams."

Jane, Mordialloc

Child Support Lawyers

In most cases, support for children under 18 is determined outside the Court system by administrative assessment under the Child Support (Assessment) Act 1989.

The amount of support is determined in accordance with a fixed legislative formula based on the income of each of the parents. Parents are obliged to financially support their children.

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