DV survivor ordered to pay child support to her abuser
A Canberra mother must pay child support to her domestic abuser despite him owing her $15,000.
Chloe separated from her abuser to escape domestic violence, but he still controls her financially through the legal system. Services Australia began demanding child support from her this month despite him already owing her more than $15,000.
Chloe earns $80,000 a year and both children currently live with her. Chloe's perpetrator claims his income is below $20,000, which Chloe disputes.
Services Australia threatened to garnish her wages if she refuses to pay him. She says she cannot afford to feed the children now.
During divorce proceedings, he avoided court-ordered disclosure of documents, a pattern she fears continues.
Why it mattersThis exposes how the child support system can be weaponised against domestic violence survivors in financial distress.
AustraliaFor Australian mothers escaping abuse, it shows how government agencies can inadvertently make survivors' situations worse.
✓ Claims checked against the source. checked 2 h ago
