Can grandparents apply for parenting orders? Explore your options under Australian family law and how to get support.

Children have a right to be heard, and their views given appropriate weight by the Family Law Courts when deciding parenting matters. The question then arises - how does the Court deal with children subject to alienation where their views are likely coerced and disconnected from their lived experience?

Recent changes to family law better protect children and their families from family violence. Learn how new definitions of different kinds of abuse affect parenting and protection orders, and what these updates could mean for you or someone you know.

It is important to be aware of an important section of the Family Law Act which criminalises the publication of material identifying parties, children or witnesses involved in a family law proceeding. Posting on social media can have unintended consequences, especially during family law proceedings. Here, we explain key changes to the Act, the types of posts or online activity which could lead to a breach under the Act and how to best protect yourself and your family.

Major changes to the Family Law Act are taking effect from June 2025. This includes redefining and expanding the considerations in determining a property settlement, such as the addition of economic and financial abuse, loans or liabilities, and future housing needs. Companion animals are now also recognised under the Family Law Act.

It is widely accepted and acknowledged in the Family Law Act 1975 and Articles 9(3) and 19 of the Hague Convention of the Rights of the Child, that to the extent possible and with reverence to risk, it is generally in the best interests of the child to maintain a relationship with both parents.

The paramount consideration when the Court makes parenting orders is the best interests of the child, assessed through the considerations detailed at section 60CC of the Act. However, in child resistance cases where there is evidence of parental coercion or manipulation of the child, the Court’s ability to rely on the consideration at section 60CC is limited.

The Federal Circuit Court and Family Court of Australia can treat inheritances in various ways when determining property division. The timing of when an inheritance is received can influence how it is considered in a property settlement.

You are separated. You have been supported by your spouse. You need financial support, here is how to get it. Spouse maintenance is financial support provided by one party of a marriage or de facto relationship to their former spouse, in circumstances where the former spouse is unable to adequately support themselves. 

When a couple divorces or separates, a financial or property settlement is almost always necessary. In this article, we will discuss how a partner’s business is part of the property settlement, and what steps can be taken to ensure a just and equitable division of assets.