Presentation Heading Subheading

Nature of Child Support The Child Support Agency (CSA ), as part of the ATO, is the administrator of the Child Support ( Assessment ) Act 1989. Major purpose - to ensure that separated parents share the costs of child support, according to their ability to pay. The Agency achieves this through collection and, if necessary, enforcement of child support payments. The Agency seeks to mediate between the parents and makes assessments on their ability to pay. They also help the parents agree on arrangements for their children by providing access to family relationship centres, the Family Relationship Advice Line and other services. Parties may come to a private agreement rather than use the CSA.

Nature of Child Support The Child Support Agency (CSA ), as part of the ATO, is the administrator of the Child Support ( Assessment ) Act 1989. Major purpose - to ensure that separated parents share the costs of child support, according to their ability to pay. The Agency achieves this through collection and, if necessary, enforcement of child support payments. The Agency seeks to mediate between the parents and makes assessments on their ability to pay. They also help the parents agree on arrangements for their children by providing access to family relationship centres, the Family Relationship Advice Line and other services. Parties may come to a private agreement rather than use the CSA.

Eligibility for the Child Support Scheme Separated Divorced Widowed Estranged. Spouse of a prisoner. Unmarried sole parent Either parent may contact the CSA.

Obligations of Employers To complete, within 14 days, a Child Support Agency questionnaire. To deduct the amount advised from the parent’s salary.  To remit the amount on a monthly basis by the 7th day of the following month. To inform the employee that child support deductions are being made and the exact amount of those deductions. To notify the Agency of any changes in the parent’s situation ( e.g. no longer employed ). To keep all information on child support deductions private and confidential. To not discriminate against the parent because they are making child support payments. To keep the deduction records for five years.

Protected earnings Amount To ensure not all of an employees wages are deducted for child support an amount is protected (annually adjusted) called the Protected earning Amount. The weekly PEA for 2013 is $333.53 This is the amount that must be set aside for your employee after tax and child support is deducted. http://www.csa.gov.au/employers/WhatIsProtectedEarningsAmount.aspx

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