Australia’s 2025 Family Law Update: Key Changes on Property Division & Family Violence Protections

Effective from 10 June 2025, the Family Law Amendment Act 2024 introduces significant reforms to property settlement and spousal matters for separating couples. These updates apply to all matters not yet at final hearing.

Here are the six key highlights:

1. Clearer Property Settlement Process: Courts now follow a structured and transparent process to assess assets, contributions, and fairness.

2. Family Violence Includes Economic Abuse: Financial control and abuse are formally recognised, impacting settlement outcomes.

3. Pet Ownership Can Be Decided by Court: Pets will be awarded to one party based on emotional bonds and care ability.

4. Statutory Financial Disclosure: Full disclosure is now legally required—non-compliance leads to penalties or case dismissal.

5. Less Adversarial Litigation: Trauma-informed and non-confrontational approaches encouraged, especially in abuse cases.

6. Applies to Ongoing Matters: The new law affects all cases not yet finalised, including private property agreements.

Read the full content here: NSW Family Law Reform Now in Effect (June 2025): Clearer Property Division and Stronger Recognition of Family Violence

If you’re currently going through a separation, speak to Brightstone Legal’s family lawyers to understand how these changes affect you.