What happens when my child turns 18?
Many parents are surprised to learn that parenting arrangements and child support don't continue indefinitely. Here's what actually changes — and what doesn't — once your child turns 18.
Many parents are surprised to learn that parenting arrangements and financial obligations do not continue indefinitely. In Australia, a child reaching the age of 18 is an important milestone in family law because many parenting orders and child support obligations come to an end.
However, there are some exceptions, particularly where a child requires ongoing financial support due to their circumstances.
What happens to parenting orders when a child turns 18?
Generally, parenting orders made under the Family Law Act 1975 automatically cease when a child turns 18. This means that once a child reaches adulthood, the Court no longer has power to make orders about:
- where the child lives;
- how much time the child spends with each parent;
- communication arrangements; or
- parental responsibility for the child.
Parents are no longer legally required to follow parenting orders relating to that child after their 18th birthday.
However, the end of parenting orders does not prevent parents from continuing to have arrangements with their adult child. Many families continue informal arrangements regarding holidays, living arrangements and contact with each parent.
What happens to child support when a child turns 18?
Child support generally ends when a child turns 18. The Child Support Registrar will usually end the child support assessment on the day before the child's 18th birthday — for example, if a child turns 18 on 15 July, child support will generally end on 14 July.
Parents should be aware that child support does not automatically continue simply because the child remains living at home, studying or financially dependent.
Are there exceptions to child support ending?
In some circumstances, financial support may continue after a child turns 18. A parent may apply to the Court for adult child maintenance where the child is:
- completing secondary education; or
- has a physical or mental disability requiring ongoing financial support.
The Court will consider factors including the child's educational needs, the child's financial circumstances, the income and financial circumstances of both parents, and whether ongoing financial support is necessary. Adult child maintenance is not automatic and requires an application to the Court.
What happens if the child is still living at home?
It is common for young adults to remain living with their parents after turning 18, particularly while completing further education or transitioning into employment.
Although parenting orders and child support may end, parents may still need to communicate and cooperate regarding issues such as accommodation, financial assistance, education expenses, medical expenses and ongoing support.
These arrangements are generally matters for the family to agree upon rather than issues determined by the Court.
Key takeaway
When a child turns 18, parenting orders generally come to an end and child support usually ceases. However, parents may still have ongoing responsibilities, particularly where an adult child requires additional support due to education or disability. The focus shifts from Court-ordered parenting arrangements to supporting the young person's transition into adulthood.
This article is general information only and does not constitute legal advice. Every matter is different — speak with one of our family lawyers about your specific circumstances.
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