Do I need to leave the family home after separation?

Not automatically. The decision should take into account safety, children, finances, ownership and practical considerations. Obtain advice before leaving where possible.

Can we be separated while living together?

Yes. Separation can occur under one roof where the relationship has ended, although evidence may later be required for particular legal processes.

Should we divide assets immediately?

Not without understanding the complete financial position and obtaining advice about the effect of any proposed agreement.

Are informal parenting arrangements enough?

They may work for some families, but they are not the same as enforceable court orders. The appropriate arrangement depends on the circumstances.

Do all separating couples need to go to court?

No. Many matters resolve through negotiation, mediation or consent orders.

Articles

Separation Is a Process, Not a Single Event: The Decisions That Matter Early
People often speak about separation as though it occurs at one clear moment. In reality, separation is usually a process involving emotional, practical, financial and parenting decisions that unfold over time. The first few weeks can be particularly difficult. A person may be trying to manage a new living arrangement, communicate with a former partner,…
Read More Separation Is a Process, Not a Single Event: The Decisions That Matter Early
Why the First Conversation After Police Contact Can Shape the Entire Case
Being contacted by police can be confronting, even when a person has not been arrested or formally charged. The instinctive response is often to explain what happened immediately, clear up a misunderstanding or demonstrate cooperation. In some cases, however, the first conversation with police becomes one of the most important moments in the entire matter….
Read More Why the First Conversation After Police Contact Can Shape the Entire Case
When Business Partners Fall Out: How a Shareholders’ Agreement Can Save Your Business
Business partnerships rarely fail overnight. More often, they unravel one disagreement at a time. The following fictional story illustrates how quickly a successful business can descend into a legal dispute when there is no shareholders’ agreement. The Deadlock. Five years ago, Sarah and Ben started a business together. They each owned 50% of the company….
Read More When Business Partners Fall Out: How a Shareholders’ Agreement Can Save Your Business
10 Clauses Every Shareholders’ Agreement Should Include
In our last article, we explained why every business with more than one owner should have a shareholders’ agreement. Now comes the practical question. What should actually be in it? Every business is different. A technology start-up has different needs to a family farming business or a construction company. Even so, there are some provisions…
Read More 10 Clauses Every Shareholders’ Agreement Should Include
Shareholders’ Agreements: The Most Important Document You Hope You Never Need
When people start a business together, they usually focus on the exciting things. They discuss the business idea, choose a company name, register the company and get to work. Very few stop to ask an important question: What happens if things change? What if one owner wants to leave? What if someone stops contributing? What…
Read More Shareholders’ Agreements: The Most Important Document You Hope You Never Need
The Hidden Costs of Delaying a Family Law Matter
When facing separation, parenting disputes, property settlements, or other legal issues, many people delay seeking legal advice in the hope that circumstances will improve on their own. Unfortunately, postponing action can often create more challenges, increase costs, and reduce available legal options. Whether you’re dealing with Family Law Newcastle, Family Law Brisbane, Family Law Geelong,…
Read More The Hidden Costs of Delaying a Family Law Matter
The Equal Opportunity Amendment Work from Home Bill 2026
Is Your Business Ready for Victoria’s Proposed Work from Home Bill? Navigating Victoria’s proposed Work from Home Bill doesn’t have to be daunting. The Equal Opportunity Amendment (Work from Home) Bill 2026 was introduced to the Victorian Parliament on 16 June 2026. If passed, it will give many employees a statutory right to work from…
Read More The Equal Opportunity Amendment Work from Home Bill 2026
What Happens When Police Request an Interview? Understanding Your Legal Rights
If police contact you and request an interview, it’s important to understand that you have legal rights. Whether you’re in Newcastle, Geelong, Werribee, Brisbane, Sydney, Melbourne, or elsewhere in Australia, knowing how to respond can significantly impact the outcome of your matter. Many people assume they must immediately attend a police interview and answer every…
Read More What Happens When Police Request an Interview? Understanding Your Legal Rights
What Happens If You Can’t Agree on Schooling Decisions After Separation?
When parents separate, making decisions about their child’s education can become one of the most challenging aspects of co-parenting. From choosing a school to deciding whether a child should change schools, disagreements can quickly escalate when both parents have different views about what’s best. The short answer is that neither parent can unilaterally make major…
Read More What Happens If You Can’t Agree on Schooling Decisions After Separation?
What is a De Facto Relationship? The Complete Australian Guide
A de facto relationship is one of the most misunderstood areas of Australian family law. Many people assume that unless they are married, they have no legal rights if a relationship breaks down. Others believe they automatically become entitled to half of everything after living together for a certain period of time. The reality is…
Read More What is a De Facto Relationship? The Complete Australian Guide