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.P.72 Payer (FTB)

Definition

For the purposes of FTB, the payer is a parent who must pay child support to the payee (1.1.P.71) of a child. The parent must be the child's natural or adoptive parent or otherwise a 'parent' under the Family Law Act 1975.

A payer may have contact with the child, or share the care of the child with the payee.

It is important to note that a partner or former partner of a parent of the child is not automatically considered to be a 'payer' for the purposes of FTB. However, any payments or benefits received from a partner or former partner of a parent of the child, for the upkeep of that FTB child, are considered to be maintenance income (1.1.M.10).

History

Before 1 July 2008, payers were referred to as 'non-resident parents' and before the Family Law Reform changes in 1996, they were known as 'non-custodial parents'.

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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