Does this sound right?

[~clover~]

With income you can earn up to around $170/fortnight, then lose 40c in every dollar while on single parent payment (I can't tell you exact figures as I'm on a different payment. SPP has more allowance that I do).

Child support is based on the same rate. If you can calculate around 8% of your partners wages(for one child), that would be an estimated amount of child support you'd receive... as long as he pays.
This is where it can all get really confusing though. Even if he doesn't pay, centrelink will base your payments on what he should be paying, then will make it up at the EOFY. So an estimate now might be a good idea, because you are prepared to not rely on that money.

It is tight. I have friends with under 3 kids that are paying around $270 per week. Rent is getting higher where they are now though, they're really starting to struggle & down size, or going back to relationships that weren't particularly healthy for them.

I don't have any magical solutions for you. If I did, I'd be using them. A lot of the time when you have to count for fuel & child care, working is pointless... I live in government housing, but still really pay the same as everyone else where I am (if not more), because I don't get rent assistance.

It can work though it's just a challenge

[Marley&Me]

Thanks for the breakdown Clover

It is hard to know for sure, even though the calculator is useful, best to call up. The cost of moving etc is probably not worth it to save only 20/30 per week. Although on single parenting payments you can apply for 50% of your bond from department of housing, so that will be helpful. Also you have child support to add into that as well... Have you tried seeking help with your relationship, it seems easier to separate at times, but there is a whole lot of work after leaving someone, especially since you guys have a child together...even 10 years later my ex and I have to work consciously to keep everything flowing well for the children..

Some days I want it to work and other days I am certain I am leaving. I have been having counselling for a couple of months so far. It helps a bit, but ultimately the decision is mine. He is trying, but sadly I don't think it will ever be enough for me