Hurley and Potts (Child support)

The case of *Hurley and Potts* concerned a dispute regarding child support payments. The primary issue before the court was whether to depart from the standard child support assessment. The court reviewed a decision that had already determined a ground for departure existed based on the income of the liable parent.

The court was required to determine whether the initial decision to depart from the child support assessment was appropriate, considering the income, property, and financial resources of both parents. The central legal question revolved around the application of the relevant provisions of the *Child Support (Registration and Collection) Act 1988* (Cth) to the specific financial circumstances of the parties.

The court found that a ground for departure was established due to the income of the liable parent. Applying the principles governing departure determinations, the court considered the overall financial position of both parents. Ultimately, the court varied the original decision to depart from the child support assessment.