The Guides to Social Policy Law is a collection of publications designed to assist decision makers administering social policy law. The information contained in this publication is intended only as a guide to relevant legislation/policy. The information is accurate as at the date listed at the bottom of the page, but may be subject to change. To discuss individual circumstances please contact Services Australia.

3.1.7 Collection agency maintenance liabilities

Context

CSRC Act sections 17 and 18 provide that a collection agency maintenance liability can be a registrable maintenance liability.

Act references

CSRC Act section 17, section 18

Description

Before the child support scheme was established, there were different arrangements in each Australian state and territory for collection of maintenance. Where a state or territory collection agency was responsible for collecting a person's liability to pay a periodic amount of maintenance for their step-child, child, spouse or former spouse (but not a de facto spouse) that liability meets the definition of a registrable maintenance liability. A collection agency maintenance liability does not have to arise under a court order.

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