Child Support Registrar

The Child Support (Registration and Collection) Act 1988 establishes the Child Support Registrar who can register liabilities arising under administrative assessments, child support agreements and court orders. Registration allows the Child Support Registrar to collect and transfer payments of child support and take enforcement action where necessary, through administrative means or application to the court. This is ensure compliance with the principal objects of the Act identified as regular and timely financial support of Children. Furthermore, it enables Australia to give effect to its obligations under international agreements and arrangements relating to maintenance obligations arising from a family relationship, parentage or marriage. An Administrative Arrangement Order has allocated the Child Support (Registration and Collection) Act 1988 to the Department of Social Services. However, s10(2) of the Act specifies: The Child Support Registrar is to be a person who is: (a) an SES employee in Services Australia (formerly the Human Services Department); and (b) specified in a written instrument made by the Chief Executive Officer, Services Australia The Department of Social Services is responsible for the policy whilst, Services Australia (formerly the Department of Human Services) undertakes the activity as specified under legislation.