Dorrigan and Dorrigan (Child support)

This matter concerned an appeal by the father, Mr Dorrigan, against a decision of the Child Support Registrar. The dispute centred on the percentage of care provided by each parent for their two children, which directly impacts the assessment of child support payments. The appeal was heard by the Administrative Appeals Tribunal.

The Tribunal was required to determine whether there had been a change in the likely pattern of care for the children since the last assessment of the percentage of care. Specifically, the Tribunal had to consider if the existing percentage of care determinations should be revoked and new determinations made based on the current circumstances.

The Tribunal affirmed the decision of the Child Support Registrar, finding that a change in the likely pattern of care had occurred. The Registrar had correctly applied the relevant provisions of the *Child Support (Registration and Collection) Act 1988* by considering the evidence presented regarding the children's living arrangements and the practical realities of their care. The Tribunal was satisfied that the Registrar's decision to revoke the existing determinations and make new ones was justified.