I have no contact with XP and I doubt that he will sign the birth certificate until a paternity test which is needs to finance himself has been paid for so I am wondering if I just name him as the father to Centrelink and CSA and allow them to pursue him to sign the birth certificate once DS is born so I can at least receive single parenting pension and family tax benefit allowance! Stupid XP probably will refuse to sign it anyway cause DS is having my surname. . . Anyone have any ideas?
I used to work for Centrelink.. but it was about 6 months ago and things change very quickly, but i'll do my best to help you!
As far as parenting payment single (PPS) and Family Tax Benefit (FTB) goes, you can claim them even if XP won't sign the birth certificate. In order to receive the full max rate of FTB you need to take maintenance action, which is starting a case with child support. There is a grace period with maintenance action (90 days i THINK) so you have a bit of time to get a birth certificate organised. You should call Child Support and see if they have any advice in terms of proving paternity. I have a feeling you can sign a stat dec or something and they can order him to have the paternity test... not sure on that one. you're best to actually call Centrelink and Child Support and explain your position so they can offer you tailored advice.
My good friend had an issue where her DP left her when she was 5 months pregnant and then suddenly started saying the baby wasn't his.
She named him to Centrelink & to CSA who then pursued him for payment and to do a paternity test. The day came where he was meant to turn up for the test and he was a no show.. my friend went to court where the magistrate put down that her Ex was the father of the baby and he was to pay child supprt for his child. Her child is now 5 and she has never seen a payment from the father, but she does get full rate of FTB A & B as well as Parenting Payment.
Thank you both for your response, I think it will be helpful to contact a social worker at Centrelink to discuss my situation just so I am aware of what to do, I will be on maternity leave at half-pay but I do need more money to support me and DS during that time as I am positive that I am entitled to that being a single parent!
Question
Reply With Quote
Bookmarks