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Home Insights New Family Law Reforms Recognise Economic Abuse in Property Settlements (Amongst Other Things)

New Family Law Reforms Recognise Economic Abuse in Property Settlements (Amongst Other Things)

  • July 8, 2025

New Amendments Effective 10 June 2025
Significant reforms to the Family Law Act 1975 (Cth) came into effect on 10 June 2025, bringing long-overdue recognition to the role of family violence and economic abuse in property settlements. These changes aim to promote fairness in the division of assets, particularly for victims of coercive control.

Recognition of Family Violence in Property Proceedings
The new s 67ZB and amendments to s 79(2) and s 90SM(2) now require the court to consider the impact of family violence particularly economic and financial abuse when determining just and equitable outcomes. This includes behaviours such as withholding access to money, incurring debts in a partner’s name, or preventing someone from working.

Such conduct need not have occured over the course of the relationship. A single event could be argued to have impacted a parties ability to make contributions.

Talk to us to get more information about this.

Codification of the Property Settlement Process
The reforms introduce a statutory four – step process for property division:

  1. Identify and value the property pool.
  2. Assess contributions (financial, non-financial, homemaking, parenting).
  3. Evaluate the future needs of both parties; and
  4. Determine a just and equitable outcome.

Speak to us about assesssing your rights.

New Consideration for Companion Animals
The court may now consider the welfare of companion animals in property settlements under the new s 60RAA, reflecting growing recognition of pets as more than mere property.

If you’re navigating a separation, it’s crucial to understand how these reforms may affect your property settlement. Consult with us to ensure your rights and interests are protected under the new legal framework.

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