De Facto Separation: Understanding Your Rights in Property and Parenting Settlements

When a de facto or close personal relationship ends, navigating the division of assets, financial responsibilities, and parenting arrangements can be overwhelming. Many people mistakenly assume that if they weren’t legally married, they don’t have rights to a property settlement. However, Australian family law provides de facto couples with similar entitlements to those of married couples when it comes to financial and parenting matters. Understanding these rights is crucial to ensuring a fair and just outcome after separation.

Time Limits on De Facto Property Settlements

Timing is everything in de facto property settlements. A claim must generally be made within two years of separation; otherwise, special permission from the court is required.

The law recognises that both financial and non-financial contributions play a role in a relationship. Property division is not simply a matter of who earned the most income.

Factors Considered in Property Settlements:

• Contributions such as homemaking, raising children, and supporting a partner’s career or business
• Each person’s future financial prospects, including:
  • Ability to earn an income
  • Health conditions
  • Caregiving responsibilities

Property Claims for Shorter Relationships

Even if a relationship lasted less than two years, a claim may still be possible if:

• A child was born during the relationship
• Significant financial or personal contributions were made
• Failing to divide assets would cause financial injustice

Spousal Maintenance & Financial Support After Separation

Financial support doesn’t necessarily end after a relationship does.

If one partner cannot support themselves financially post-separation and the other has the means to help, spousal maintenance may be available.

Key Points About Spousal Maintenance:

• Not automatic – each case is assessed individually
• Payments usually stop if the recipient enters a new de facto relationship or remarries

Child Support Obligations

Child support remains a legal obligation, regardless of whether the parents were married.

If there is a dispute about parentage, the court may order a DNA test. Additionally, same-sex couples are entitled to seek child support from a former partner.

To estimate payments or apply, visit the Services Australia Child Support portal.

Final Thoughts: Know Your Rights & Seek Legal Advice

De facto relationships are legally recognised and protected under Australian law, but many people only realise the extent of their rights when it’s too late.

If you need advice about:

• Dividing property
• Negotiating financial support
• Formalising parenting arrangements
• Protecting your future with a financial agreement

Seeking expert legal guidance is the best way to ensure you are treated fairly.

At Jameson Law, we are dedicated to helping clients navigate the complexities of de facto separation and achieve the best possible outcome.

📞 Contact our team today to discuss your options.