Buckner and Child Support Registrar (Child support)

This matter concerned an application by Mr Buckner for an extension of time to object to a child support departure decision made on 22 February 2018. The application was heard by Y Webb M of the Administrative Appeals Tribunal.

The Tribunal was required to determine whether to grant Mr Buckner an extension of time to lodge his objection, considering the principles established in *Hunter Valley Developments Pty Ltd v Cohen* and subsequent case law. This involved balancing several factors, including the adequacy of the explanation for the delay, any prejudice to the other party, the public interest in observing timeframes, and the merits of the case.

The Tribunal accepted that Mr Buckner had an acceptable explanation for the delay, stemming from his initial misunderstanding of the required procedural steps following a court application in March 2019. However, it found that granting an extension would likely cause some prejudice to Ms A, the other party, by potentially impacting her confidence in the Child Support Agency's processes and creating uncertainty. Furthermore, the Tribunal noted the strong public policy reasons for adhering to time limits in the child support jurisdiction, which reduce financial uncertainty for parents and children, and that the public expects timeframes to be observed unless there is a very good reason to deviate.

Ultimately, the Tribunal refused Mr Buckner's application for an extension of time.