NEWS & INSIGHTS

Family law matters can already be emotionally and financially stressful. From 1 July, changes to Federal Circuit and Family Court filing fees may affect the cost of starting or progressing a family law matter. At the same time, important updates to family law property matters are changing the way financial abuse, family violence and even family pets may be considered in property settlements.

These changes are particularly relevant for people who are separating, recently separated or considering making an application in relation to parenting, property or financial matters.

Property settlement is the legal process of dividing assets, debts and financial resources after divorce or separation — and it’s rarely a simple 50/50 split. Learn what’s included, how contributions are assessed, and the time limits that apply.

Navigating child custody after a separation can feel overwhelming, particularly when emotions are high and decisions need to be made about your child’s future. In Australia, child custody arrangements are often managed through a parenting plan, which outlines how parents will care for and make decisions for their child moving forward. The legal system focuses on ensuring that all arrangements are made in the best interests of the child, rather than prioritising one parent over the other.

When parents separate, one of the most important decisions they must make is how to organise care arrangements for their children.

Prior to bringing an application for parenting and/or property orders, parties are ordinarily required to make a genuine effort to resolve their dispute, including attending mediation and making an offer of settlement with a reasonable timeframe for acceptance.

When it comes to family law matters in Australia, the definition of a de facto relationship is not always as straightforward as it may seem.