Child support is essential for ensuring that children of separated parents receive the financial support they need. However, a troubling issue often goes unnoticed: some parents’ failure to submit their tax returns. This tactic, used to evade paying the correct amount of child support, can have devastating effects on the custodial parent, often perpetuating economic abuse.
Recent reports reveal that over 160,000 parents in Australia’s child support system did not lodge their tax returns in the last financial year. This non-compliance disrupts child support calculations, often leading to either underpayment or overpayment. Experts argue that such actions should be recognized as a form of economic abuse, as they directly impact the financial well-being of the custodial parent, who is typically the mother.
Several strategies are employed by some parents to avoid fulfilling their child support obligations:
Economic abuse, as highlighted by Women’s Legal Services Australia, is a severe form of family violence. Non-payment of child support continues the control and abuse many women experienced during their marriages. The burden often falls on mothers to pursue investigations and court proceedings, exacerbating their financial and emotional stress.
The Australian government has recognized these issues and allocated $5 million in the 2023 federal budget for reforms aimed at improving compliance and enforcement within the child support system. These reforms include:
The failure to submit tax returns by non-custodial parents goes beyond mere oversight; it’s a tactic that can perpetuate economic abuse and exacerbate family violence. If you’re struggling with child support issues or suspect that your ex-partner is not reporting their full income, don’t navigate this challenging situation alone.
At O’Loan Family Law, we are dedicated to advocating for a fair child support system and supporting our clients through these complex issues. Our experienced team is ready to help you address any discrepancies and ensure you and your children receive the financial support you deserve.
Contact us today for a consultation and take the first step towards resolving your child support concerns. Let us assist you in achieving a fair and just outcome, so you can focus on what matters most—your family’s well-being.
About The Author - Bron O'Loan
Bron O’Loan is an Accredited Specialist in Family Law and Principal Director of O’Loan Family Law in Sydney. Admitted to practise in 2015, she has over 12 years of exclusive family law experience advising on separation, parenting disputes and complex property settlements. Bron holds a Master of Applied Law (Family Law) and is admitted to the Supreme Court of NSW and the High Court of Australia, providing strategic, commercially aware advice tailored to each family’s circumstances. |
*This post is an overview only and should not be considered as legal advice. If there are any matters that you would like us to advise you on, then please contact us.
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