What is a FA012 form and why is it relevant in family law matters? The FA012 form is an important document for family law matters in Australia. Specifically, parties use it when one wants to apply for a child support assessment, or change an existing child support assessment. We also refer to the form as the “Application for Assessment of child support” form.
The form itself is relatively straightforward. It has sections for:
- personal and contact information,
- details about the child or children involved, and
- financial information for both parents.
The evidence required for this form may vary depending on the specific care arrangement being assessed by Centrelink.
By filling out this Centrelink form, the applicant is requesting that Centrelink assess how much child support should be paid. Both the parent’s income and the needs of the child are critical factors for the assessment.
When Is the FA012 Form Used?
The FA012 form is typically used in situations where parents are separated or divorced, and one parent is seeking financial support from the other. This financial support is for childcare expenses. This could be because the parents were never married, or because they have separated or divorced since having children together.
In some cases, the Child Support Agency may also use the FA012 form to reassess an existing child support arrangement. For example, if one parent’s income changes significantly, or if the child’s needs change, the agency may need to recalculate how much child support should be paid.
How to Fill Out the FA012 Form?
Filling out your child’s care arrangements form may seem daunting at first, but it’s actually a fairly straightforward process. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you through it:
Step 1: Gather Your Information
Before you start filling out the form, make sure you have all the necessary information on hand. This includes:
- Personal and contact information for both parents, including full names, addresses, phone numbers, and email addresses.
- Details about the child or children involved, including their names, dates of birth, and living arrangements. This may include information about your child’s custody or care arrangement, visitation schedules, and any special needs the child may have.
- Financial information for both parents, including income details and any relevant expenses. This may include information about each parent’s salary or wages, as well as any other sources of income such as rental properties or investments. This way, the parents may also see if they are eligible for a child care benefit or receiving family tax benefit.
- Details about any child support payments that are currently being made, including the amount and frequency of payments.
- Information about any child care costs, medical expenses, or other relevant expenses that may need to be considered in the child support assessment.
- Details about any changes in circumstances that may have affected the parents’ ability to pay or receive child support, such as changes in income or living arrangements.
- Supporting documentation, such as pay stubs, tax returns, or receipts for expenses.
Step 2: Fill Out the Form
Start by filling out the personal and contact information sections of the form. Be sure to double-check that you’ve entered everything correctly, as errors or omissions could delay the assessment process. Next, move on to the details about the child or children involved.
To fill in this form digitally you will need a computer and Adobe Acrobat Reader, or a similar program. You can download Adobe Acrobat Reader for free online. If your file has been converted to PDF format and is still larger than 5mb you will not be able to lodge the document online. Make sure to also double check your electronic signatures
Step 3: Submit the Form
Once you’ve completed the form, you’ll need to submit it to the Child Support Agency. You can do this by mail, fax, or online through the agency’s website. Make sure to include any supporting documentation, such as pay stubs or receipts for expenses.
Why Is the FA012 Form Important?
The FA012 form is an important tool for ensuring that children receive the financial support they need to thrive. By assessing each parent’s income and expenses, the Child Support Agency can determine a fair and appropriate amount of child support that a party must pay. This can help ensure that both parents are contributing to the child’s well-being, regardless of their relationship status.
Additionally, the FA012 form can help prevent disputes between parents by providing a clear and objective assessment of how much child support a party should pay. This can be especially helpful in situations where one parent may feel that they are paying too much or not receiving enough support.
How Can Family Lawyers Help?
Family lawyers can be invaluable resources when it comes to filling out the FA012 form and navigating the child support system in Australia. Here are some ways that a family lawyer can help:
- Providing guidance and advice: A family lawyer can help parents understand their rights and obligations when it comes to child support and can provide guidance on how to fill out the FA012 form correctly. They can also help parents understand the child support assessment process and what to expect.
- Assisting with negotiations: If there are disputes or disagreements between parents about child support, a family lawyer can help facilitate negotiations and work towards a resolution that is fair and reasonable for both parties.
- Representing parents in court: In some cases, parties may need to resolve child support disputes in court. A family lawyer can represent parents in these proceedings and advocate on their behalf.
- Providing ongoing support: Even after the child support assessment is complete, a family lawyer can continue to provide support and advice as needed. They can help parents navigate any changes in circumstances that may affect the child support arrangement. Additionally, they can assist with any disputes or issues that may arise.
Importance of Seeking Legal Advice
Ultimately, the FA012 form is an important tool for ensuring that children receive the financial support they need to thrive, and for helping parents navigate the complexities of the family law system in Australia. If you’re in a situation where you need to apply for child support or reassess your child’s care arrangements, don’t hesitate to seek legal advice.
We at JB Solicitors can aid parents who are in a high-conflict relationship or in disagreements about child support or custody. Our team of family lawyers can help facilitate negotiations and work towards a resolution that is fair and reasonable for both parties. Our mediation and arbitration services can help disputed parties reach an amicable resolution in their family law matter.
Contact us today if you need help filling out a FA012 form.
