The latest reforms to the Family Law Act 1975 (Cth) aim to enhance the efficiency of financial settlements between parties and is due to commence on 10 June 2025.
These changes will have an impact on both new and existing proceedings, except where a final hearing has already begun.
Key Changes:
- Recognition of Family Violence in Property Settlements: The Act now mandates how the Courts consider the impact of family violence when determining a financial settlement. This includes acknowledging economic or financial abuse as a consideration in a financial settlement.
- Codification of the Property Settlement Process: The traditional four-step process for property settlements—identifying and valuing assets, assessing contributions, evaluating other relevant factors (future needs) and determining justice and equity, —is now codified within the Act. This formalisation provides clarity and consistency in how property matters are dealt with in our Judicial system.
- Enhanced Duty of Financial Disclosure: The Act elevates the duty of financial disclosure set out in the Federal Circuit and Family Court of Australia (Family Law) Rules 2021, into the Act itself. This change aims to ensure that separating couples are fully informed about each other’s financial circumstances, promoting transparency and fairness.
- Consideration of Pets in Property Settlements: The Act introduces a framework for determining the ownership of companion pets in property settlements. This provision ensures that decisions regarding pets are made thoughtfully by considering a specific list of matters that apply only in relation to pets.
These amendments strongly focus on the effects of domestic and family violence in financial settlements, which in the current landscape of Australia is a step toward recognition that domestic violence has an impact in every sector of a person’s life.
You can find the Attorney-General’s fact sheet about these changes here Family law (property) changes from 10 June 2025 – Fact sheet for separating couples.
Our family law team at Lindbloms Lawyers are committed to ensuring our clients achieve an outcome in their property settlement that is fair and now will take into account additional factors. Call us today to discuss how these changes may effect you.