13/05/2026
Many parents are unsure whether child support continues once their child turns 18, when it stops and whether it can be extended.
Here are some key things to understand:
β’ In most cases, child support stops when a child turns 18
β’ If your child is still in secondary school, you may be able to apply to extend payments to the end of the school year
β’ Child maintenance may continue if your adult child is completing secondary or tertiary education, has a serious illness or has a physical or mental disability
β’ Either a parent or the child can apply for an adult child maintenance order
β’ The amount paid takes into account the child's necessary expenses and each parent's financial position
Every family's situation is different, and the rules can be complex.
If you have questions about child support or adult child maintenance, our family law team is here to help.