Child Support and Financial Agreements.
Helping you manage financial responsibilities with confidence and fairness
We help separated and divorced parents understand their child support entitlements and obligations — ensuring children are properly supported and financial arrangements are fair, sustainable, and legally sound.
How we can help
Clear, practical advice to help you navigate child support and financial arrangements with confidence and fairness.
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We draft, review, and negotiate legally binding child support agreements that protect your rights and your child’s wellbeing — covering both regular and non-regular expenses such as school or medical costs.
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When disputes arise or formal orders are needed, we represent you in the Federal Circuit and Family Court of Australia to ensure your financial arrangements are fair, accurate, and enforceable.
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We make sure your child support aligns with your parenting orders or agreements, so care arrangements and financial responsibilities remain consistent and sustainable for both parents.
Why Choose Family First Lawyers
We believe in leading with empathy, guiding families toward fair and practical financial arrangements that support their children’s wellbeing. Our approach combines clarity, compassion, and strong advocacy — helping you feel informed, confident, and supported every step of the way.
Empathy first
We understand the emotional and financial challenges of separation and provide advice that’s compassionate, clear, and practical.
Resolution focused
We prioritise balanced agreements that reduce conflict and ensure your child’s needs remain at the centre of every decision.
Strength when needed
When disputes arise, we stand firmly by your side — advocating with clarity and confidence to secure a fair outcome for your family.
What to Expect
Your First Steps with Us
When you work with us, you can expect:
A calm, understanding space to discuss your situation and feel supported.
Clear guidance on your child support or financial obligations — explained in plain language.
Tailored advice to ensure your arrangements are fair, sustainable, and legally sound.
Transparency from the start, with clear communication around fees, timeframes, and next steps.
A clear plan forward that gives you confidence, certainty, and peace of mind.
Client Testimonials
Real Families, Real Experiences
FAQ
Common Questions About Child Support and Financial Agreements.
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A Child Support Agreement is a written arrangement between parents about how child support will be paid. It can cover regular payments and specific expenses like school fees or medical costs. We help you draft, review, or negotiate agreements that are fair, practical, and legally binding.
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A Limited Agreement is flexible and can be changed or ended after three years or if circumstances change. A Binding Agreement is legally enforceable and requires both parents to obtain independent legal advice before signing. We’ll guide you on which option suits your situation best.
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Yes. Both parents must obtain independent legal advice before entering a Binding Child Support Agreement. We ensure you fully understand your rights, obligations, and the long-term impact of the agreement before it’s finalised.
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Yes. Agreements can include non-periodic payments like school fees, health insurance, extracurricular activities, or other direct expenses for your child. We can help you structure your agreement to reflect what works best for your family.
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If you can’t reach an agreement privately, child support can be assessed through Services Australia (Child Support) using an income-based formula. If you believe the assessment doesn’t reflect your situation, we can help you seek a review or apply for a departure from the standard formula.
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Most matters are handled through Services Australia, but the Federal Circuit and Family Court can step in for specific situations — such as enforcing or setting aside a Binding Child Support Agreement, or when a parent seeks a departure from the standard formula. We can represent you in these applications to ensure your case is presented clearly and confidently.
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Child support is often linked to the time a child spends with each parent. We make sure your financial arrangements align with your parenting orders or agreements — and help you understand how any changes in care might affect support obligations.
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Yes. A Binding Financial Agreement can also address property division, spousal maintenance, and other financial matters following separation or divorce. We help ensure these agreements are drafted to protect your interests and comply with all legal requirements.
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Life changes — and so can your child support arrangements. We can help you review or vary your agreement to reflect new circumstances, such as income changes, new care arrangements, or additional expenses.