When a relationship breaks down, and there are investment properties, property settlement can be more complex. This article explains how investment properties are treated in property settlements, what factors courts consider, and what practical options separating couples have.
This article explains what a partial property settlement is, when it may be appropriate, how it works under Australian law, and the risks and benefits to be aware of before proceeding.
Search orders (also known as “Anton Piller orders”) in court proceedings are a powerful tool used in Australian family law property disputes when one party is suspected of hiding, destroying or refusing to disclose financial information or assets.
Temporary visa holders do have rights under Australian family law. This includes access to parenting orders, property settlement in many situations, and safety protections such as family violence orders. Knowing your rights and support options protects you and helps you make informed decisions.
In Australia, some Family Court orders can be varied informally or through administrative processes, while others require either agreement between the parties or a fresh court application. This article explains the options, the limits and when legal advice is important to avoid breaching an existing court order.
Separation can be an extremely emotionally challenging experience. A common concern after separation is consideration of the ownership of the family home. In Australia, the family home will form part of the joint asset pool when negotiating a property settlement after separation or divorce.
If you suspect your ex is not being open about assets and there is more than what is being disclosed, unfortunately, you may need Court intervention to seek orders for the production of documents or otherwise, a subpoena.
From June 2025, Australian family law changed the way courts in most jurisdictions deal with family pets in property settlement. Pets are no longer treated as just another piece of property. Instead, they are recognised as “companion animals” – a special category with rules that reflect their role in family life.
When going through a separation or divorce, one of the most difficult aspects can be working out how to divide property. This process can become even more complex when one partner has received a personal injury lump sum payment during or around the time of the relationship.
New laws relating to property settlement and family violence came into effect on 10 June 2025. The intention is to improve how courts deal with property settlements (financial matters), particularly for those involving allegations of family violence.
Sometimes, people involved in a family law matter may be unable to represent themselves due to age, incapacity or disability. In these circumstances, a litigation guardian (or often referred to as a case guardian) may be appointed.
While many people assume that court is the only way to resolve family law disputes, arbitration is another option and increasingly becoming more popular.