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.

3.5.2 Court orders discharging late payment penalties

Context

A court exercising family law jurisdiction may not make an order discharging late payment penalties payable to the Registrar. If a court does make an order of this type, the Registrar is not bound by the terms of the order, but will consider remitting any penalties.

See 5.1.6 for more details on when late payment penalties can be remitted.

Act reference

CSRC Act section 68

Orders discharging late payment penalties

A court exercising family law jurisdiction has no power to deal with late payment penalties. The Registrar is not required to give effect to an order that is invalid.

Despite this, the Registrar sometimes receives court orders made in proceedings between parents that direct the Registrar to reduce or remit late payment penalties. The Registrar will consider whether it is appropriate to reduce or remit the late payment penalties. The Registrar will take into account any evidence produced to the court about the payer's financial position when deciding if there are special circumstances that make it fair and reasonable to reduce or remit the LPP (section 68(1)(c)).

Last reviewed: