More need to know about CSA Complaints Service

Minister for Community Services Larry Anthony today welcomed a report by the Commonwealth Ombudsman into the Child Support Agency (CSA) Complaints Service.

“The Ombudsman’s Report, Review of the CSA Complaints Service, found that in the vast majority of cases complaints were dealt with effectively and efficiently.

“The breakdown of a relationship is stressful, particularly when children are involved. Adult emotions often run high. For many separating parents one of the first points of contact they will have with the family law system is with the CSA.

“This makes child support a difficult and highly emotional issue. It is natural that parents may not see eye to eye with decisions made by the CSA.

“Fellow parliamentarians would agree that child support issues are some of the most difficult and complex raised by constituents.

“Everyone dealing with child support issues and the CSA should be pleased with this result. The Ombudsman will continue to refer matters to the CSA Complaints Service on the strength of their findings.

“However, the Report found that there was low awareness amongst parents of the Complaints Service existence. Only 34% of parents who contacted the Ombudsman were aware the service was available.

“The establishment of the Complaints Service is another example of the importance this Government has placed on improving the CSA. I encourage parents to use the CSA Complaints Service to resolve their child support issues,” Mr Anthony said.

The CSA Complaint Service can be contacted on 132 919.