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.

1.1.C.60 Custodian, custodial parent (FTB)

Definition

Before the Family Law Reform changes in 1996, a custodian was a person with whom a child lived all or most of the time and who had care of the child. Although this is usually a natural or adoptive parent, a custodian does not have to be a child's parent.

The appropriate term became 'resident parent' (1.1.R.40) but this term is no longer used in the family law context.

Policy reference: FA Guide 3.1.5 Maintenance action test for FTB Part A, 3.1.6 Child support assessments & agreements, 3.1.7 Maintenance income test

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