How is Australian Child Support calculated in 2026?

It is calculated using the official 8-step formula based on combined income, care percentages, and cost of living tables provided by Services Australia.

Does 50/50 care mean no child support?

Not necessarily. If there is a significant income disparity between parents, child support may still be payable even with 50/50 shared care.

Who can apply for Reason 2 (Special Needs Care Costs)?

Either parent can apply if their child has a disability, chronic illness, or special needs that require care costs beyond what the standard formula considers.

What medical evidence do I need for a special needs claim?

You should provide medical reports, diagnosis letters from specialists, NDIS plans if applicable, and invoices showing the costs of therapies, equipment, medications, or specialist care.

Does NDIS funding affect a Reason 2 application?

Yes. The Registrar will consider your NDIS package when assessing your claim. Out-of-pocket costs not covered by NDIS are most relevant for a Change of Assessment.

Can both parents apply for special needs costs?

Yes, but typically the parent with primary care who incurs most costs applies. If both parents have significant costs, each can submit their own application with supporting evidence.

Reason 2: Special Needs Care Costs - Child Support Change of Assessment

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Reason 2

Reason 2: Special Needs Care Costs

Child Support Change of Assessment

Services Australia Code: 5.2.2

What is this reason?

If your child has special needs that require expensive care beyond what the standard child support formula considers, you may be able to have your assessment changed. This is "Reason 2" under the Child Support (Assessment) Act. This reason applies when a child has: - A disability requiring specialist care or equipment - A chronic medical condition requiring ongoing treatment - Mental health needs requiring therapy or support services - Learning difficulties requiring specialist education support The costs must be necessary for the child's wellbeing and significantly higher than what the formula assumes for children generally.

John and Sarah's Story

John and Sarah's daughter Emma has autism spectrum disorder. Sarah, who has primary care of Emma, pays for: - Weekly occupational therapy sessions ($200/week) - Fortnightly speech therapy ($150/fortnight) - A support worker for after-school care ($15,000/year) - Specialist equipment and sensory toys ($3,000/year) These costs total over $25,000 annually - far more than typical child-raising costs. Sarah applied for a Change of Assessment under Reason 2. She provided medical reports confirming Emma's diagnosis and invoices for her care costs. The Registrar increased John's child support to help cover these necessary expenses.

Do you think this applies to you?

If this reason sounds like your situation, you may be eligible for a Change of Assessment. Our tool can help you identify which grounds apply to your case.

Related Information

Calculate Your Child Support

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Browse Other Reasons

Reason 1

High Costs of Contact

Reason 3

High Costs of Caring/Educating

Reason 4

Child's Income/Resources

Reason 5

Transferred Benefits

Reason 6

High Childcare Costs

Reason 7

Reduced Capacity - Commitments

Reason 8A

Income/Property/Resources

Reason 8B

Earning Capacity

Reason 9

Duty to Maintain Another

Reason 10

Resident Child Responsibility

Frequently Asked Questions

This information is general in nature and not legal advice. Every situation is different. For advice specific to your circumstances, consider consulting with a family lawyer.

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