Your pathway
I've recently separated
Work through support, safe records and practical next steps. Start wherever your circumstances require.
Protect linked records before sensitive updates
Ask Centrelink, Medicare and Child Support how to separate records safely before adding a new address or bank details. Representative and nominee changes may have visible effects.
Read the guide: Update records after separationTell services about the actual separation
Follow each agency's process and keep safe copies of what you report. Separation under one roof needs assessment. Deadlines and qualifying events differ.
Read the guide: Report changes to payments and servicesCheck payments and make the right claims
Parenting Payment, Family Tax Benefit and child-care help have separate eligibility tests and applications. A separation does not automatically start them.
Read the guide: Parenting Payment and income supportAsk about child support and FTB together
Collection choices can affect Family Tax Benefit. If seeking maintenance is unsafe, ask about exemptions before contacting the other parent.
Read the guide: Child support for receiving and paying parentsCheck housing and bond help before paying
Ask your local service about options, conditions and whether you must apply before paying a bond. A referral does not guarantee accommodation.
Read the guide: Housing, renting and movingGet advice about children, property and time limits
Seek legal advice about arrangements, orders and deadlines. Safety and WA family-law differences can change the route.
Read the guide: Family law when a relationship ends
Wording reviewed 5 October 2026. Numerical rules have separate verification dates on Sources and updates.