Lees and Hackett (Child support)

This matter concerned an appeal by Lees against a decision of the Child Support Registrar regarding the percentage of care for the parties' child. The dispute centred on whether there had been a change to the likely pattern of care for the child, which would necessitate a reassessment of the child support payable. The appeal was heard by Member S Letch of the relevant tribunal.

The primary legal issue before the tribunal was to determine whether the evidence presented established a material change in the likely pattern of care for the child, such that the existing child support assessment should be varied. This required an assessment of the factual circumstances and whether they met the threshold for a change in care arrangements under the relevant legislation.

Member Letch affirmed the decision of the Child Support Registrar. The tribunal found that the evidence did not demonstrate a sufficient or sustained change in the likely pattern of care that would warrant a departure from the existing assessment. The existing arrangements were considered to reflect the established pattern of care for the child.