Currently, parents that pay child support are not guaranteed that their money is being spent on their child. This is an unregulated payment. The CMS 'trust that the money is being spent wisely' and 'in the child's best interests'. This means the other parent can spend it on whatever they want without fear of being questioned.

This petition seeks to address major issues faced by many parents paying child support who deserve to know how their money is being utilized, and who also deserve adequate contact with their children.

Firstly, every parent who makes child support payments should have the right to understand how their contributions are being spent. Ensuring transparency will not only instill peace of mind but also guarantee that funds are being used appropriately for the child's needs.

Secondly, parents who have proven themselves fit should be entitled to maintain as much contact with their child as they wish. The love and support provided through parental contact are invaluable and significantly beneficial to a child's wellbeing.

Moreover, when parents contribute additional funds directly towards specific needs, such as educational materials or extracurricular activities, these should be recognised in the child support arrangements, thus reducing the required payment based on proof of expenditure.

Additionally, child support payments should not be influenced by a parent's income but instead be based on a fixed rate per child. Every child deserves the same standard of living regardless of the paying parent's earnings. This adjustment will create a more equitable system where child support is about meeting the child's needs, not penalising financial success.

Parents who often travel to spend time with their children should have these costs recognized and deducted from their child support obligations. Time and effort spent to maintain a relationship with the child should not come with an additional financial burden. Currently, there is a deduction, but, it is not a value that matches that which is spent.

Lastly, the calculation of child support should be based on post-tax income. This adjustment ensures that parents are contributing a fair proportion of their actual, disposable income.

By reforming these aspects of the child support system, we can create a more fair, transparent, and effective support system for both parents and children.

Please sign this petition to help us pursue these necessary changes for the sake of all parents and children who are navigating the complexities of child support.