Child Support Calculator Australian Capital Territory [2026] — ACT Guide
Child support in the Australian Capital Territory is calculated using the same federal formula as every other Australian state and territory. The formula is national — administered by Services Australia, not the ACT government. What differs in the Australian Capital Territory is where to get help, which courts handle family law matters, and the local resources available to you.
Calculate Child Support in the Australian Capital Territory
The formula is identical across all states. Enter both parents' incomes, care nights, and number of children — get your 2026 estimate instantly.
Use Free CalculatorIs Child Support Different in the Australian Capital Territory?
No — the calculation is identical across all states and territories. Australia uses a single national child support scheme under the Child Support (Assessment) Act 1989. If someone tells you child support works differently in the Australian Capital Territory, or quotes you a 'ACT-specific rate', that's not accurate.
How to Calculate Child Support in the Australian Capital Territory
Use the calculator above. You'll need:
- Your annual adjusted taxable income
- The other parent's annual income
- Number of children
- Your care arrangement (nights per fortnight)
For a full explanation of the formula and worked examples, see: How is child support calculated in Australia.
Applying for Child Support in the Australian Capital Territory
Apply through Services Australia — there's no separate ACT process:
- Go to my.gov.au and log in or create an account
- Link your account to Child Support
- Submit your application online
Alternatively, call Services Australia on 131 272 (Monday to Friday, 8am to 8pm).
Family Law Courts in the Australian Capital Territory
Child support disputes that escalate to court are handled by the Federal Circuit and Family Court of Australia (FCFCOA):
6 Chan Street, Belconnen ACT 2617
Phone: 1300 352 000
Legal Aid ACT — Free Child Support Advice
| Service | Contact |
|---|---|
| Legal Aid ACT general line | (02) 6243 3411 |
| Family law advice line | (02) 6243 3411 (ask for family law) |
| Online enquiry | legalaidact.org.au |
| Canberra office | 2 Allsop Street, Canberra ACT 2601 |
Eligibility for Legal Aid ACT is means-tested. If you don't qualify, community legal centres in the ACT offer free advice.
Community Legal Centres in the Australian Capital Territory
- Canberra Community Law
- Women's Legal Centre ACT
- Aboriginal Legal Service (NSW/ACT)
- Youth Law Centre ACT
- Care Financial Counselling and Legal Service
National Family Violence and Legal Help Line: 1800 570 579
Child Support and the ACT Family Violence System
If family violence is a factor:
- Services Australia has specialist family violence staff — ask when you call 131 272
- Legal Aid ACT can direct you to family law and family violence services
- Domestic Violence Crisis Service provides 24/7 support: (02) 6280 0900
- Child support collect service minimises contact between parents
Need legal help in Australian Capital Territory?
Our calculator gives you an estimate. If your situation involves disputed income, a Change of Assessment, or a binding agreement, a family law specialist can help.
Related guides: Change of Assessment Private agreements What child support covers
Frequently Asked Questions — Australian Capital Territory
Is child support the same in the Australian Capital Territory as in other states?
Yes — child support is a federal scheme with the same formula and process in every state and territory.
Where do I go for free child support advice in the Australian Capital Territory?
Legal Aid ACT on (02) 6243 3411, your nearest community legal centre, or the Family Law Advice Line (1800 050 321).
Can I take a child support dispute to the ACT Magistrates Court?
No — child support matters are handled by the Federal Circuit and Family Court of Australia. The Belconnen registry is at 6 Chan Street.
Does the ACT government have any child support programs?
Child support is a federal scheme. The ACT government provides support through Legal Aid ACT and community legal centres, but assessment and collection is done entirely by Services Australia.