The changes to the Family Law Act 2025 bring significant reforms that affect how property is divided, parenting arrangements are handled, and financial support is calculated. These updates reshape the landscape for anyone going through family law matters.
At Jameson Law, we’ve seen firsthand how legislative changes impact our clients. Understanding these new rules now helps you prepare and make informed decisions about your family’s future.
What Changed in Property Division, Parenting, and Financial Support?
Property Division Now Accounts for Family Violence
From 10 June 2025, the Family Law Act 1975 requires courts to consider the economic impact of family violence when splitting assets. This includes financial abuse such as controlling spending, preventing work, or concealing debts.
The Attorney-General’s Department factsheet confirms that dowry-related coercion is explicitly recognised as economic abuse. If your ex controlled finances, courts can now weight this against their entitlements in a property settlement.
Courts can also make specific orders about companion animals (pets), considering factors like primary attachment and abuse history. Joint ownership is generally no longer an option.
Parenting Requirements Have Shifted
The two-year counselling requirement for divorce has been removed. However, you must now obtain a certificate from an accredited Family Dispute Resolution Practitioner before applying for parenting orders, unless exemptions (urgency, abuse) apply.
Financial Support Reflects Family Violence Impact
Spousal maintenance decisions now explicitly factor in family violence and its economic effects. Courts assess current circumstances differently, including material wastage of property.
Financial disclosure obligations have been elevated from the Rules into the Act itself. Non-disclosure can trigger contempt charges. For more on this, see the FCFCOA update.
How the 2025 Changes Impact Your Separation?
Your Divorce Timeline Just Changed
The removal of the two-year counselling requirement streamlines Part VI applications. However, the standard 12-month separation period remains. If you have children under 18, the mandatory dispute resolution certificate applies to both sole and joint applications.
Financial Disclosure Now Carries Legal Teeth
The duty to disclose all assets, liabilities, and superannuation interests is now a core legislative requirement. Non-disclosure results in adverse rulings. This applies whether you negotiate a Binding Financial Agreement or go to court.
What Documentation Matters Most Right Now?
Start collecting evidence of your separation date and all financial records immediately. If your ex controlled spending, gather proof of these actions. The timing of your documentation collection affects how thoroughly courts can assess your circumstances.
Getting Your Documentation and Support in Place
Collect Your Financial Records Now
The changes apply to all separating couples. Start your preparation immediately. Establish your separation date and collect records from the past three years. If children are involved, check Services Australia regarding child support impacts.
Select a Family Law Specialist
Finding the right specialist matters. You need someone who understands how family violence affects Consent Orders under the 2025 changes. Ask directly how they handle cases involving economic abuse.
Final Thoughts
The changes to the Family Law Act 2025 reshape how courts handle property and parenting. Family violence now directly influences asset distribution, and financial disclosure obligations carry legal weight.
Professional legal guidance helps you navigate these complexities. We at Jameson Law can clarify which rules apply to your situation. Contact us now to discuss how the changes affect your circumstances and what steps you should take next.
