A general view of Services Australia department head office in Canberra. Source: AAP / MICK TSIKAS/AAPIMAGE
A Commonwealth Ombudsman report has found Services Australia knowingly breached child support laws for six years, denying payments to parents with less than 35 per cent care. At least 16,600 people were affected, with some owed up to $10,000. The report highlights unintended legal consequences, financial abuse risks, and recommends law changes, compensation, and stronger oversight to recover funds and protect vulnerable families.
A Commonwealth Ombudsman report has found Services Australia knowingly breached child support laws for six years, denying payments to parents with less than 35 per cent care. At least 16,600 people were affected, with some owed up to $10,000. The report highlights unintended legal consequences, financial abuse risks, and recommends law changes, compensation, and stronger oversight to recover funds and protect vulnerable families.
