Heading overseas? Child Support tips

CHILD SUPPORT AGENCY MEDIA RELEASE

26 August 2011

Separation can be a tough time for all involved, especially for parents juggling defence responsibilities.

Child Support National Manager of New Customers, Bruce Young, said a new fact sheet is now available for separated parents working with the Australian Defence Force.

“The new factsheet Being deployed? Tips to help you manage your child support at www.csa.gov.auis aimed at separated parents who work with the Australian Defence Force,” Mr Young said.

“The Australian Defence Force is one of the largest employers in Australia and Defence personnel have a unique set of working conditions which may affect their child support.

“These include moving interstate and overseas frequently for varying lengths of time, changing income throughout the year, being deployed at very short notice and restricted access to basic services such as the internet and phone while away.

“It’s really important separated parents contact Child Support so they are aware of their  options and support services available - especially if they are being deployed.

“If you’re being deployed you should call Child Support on 131 272 to update your contact details, your income (lodge outstanding tax returns and report any potential income changes), your care arrangements and expected period of deployment.

“You can also register for CSAonline and  conduct your child support business over the internet, authorise someone to speak on your behalf while you are away and ask the ADF to deduct and pay child support directly from your wages.”

To download the factsheet Being deployed? Tips to help you manage your child support or find out more about how relocation and deployment can affect your child support payments call 131 272 or visit www.csa.gov.au.