Financial abuse is a form of family violence where one partner controls money to limit the independence and autonomy of the other, before or after separation. It is now recognised under the Family Law Act and its perpetration can impact court outcomes.

The duty of disclosure requires parties in family law cases to provide full, frank, and timely disclosure of all relevant information in parenting and property matters. While this obligation was previously set out in the Rules, the Family Law Amendment Act 2024 has now incorporated it directly into the Family Law Act 1975.

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.