Spousal Maintenance in Australia: What You Need to Know

When a relationship breaks down, many people assume property settlement is the only financial issue to resolve. In reality, spousal maintenance in Australia is a separate legal entitlement under the Family Law Act 1975 and can significantly impact post-separation finances. It involves one party potentially providing ongoing financial support to the other after separation or […]
Consent Orders vs Binding Financial Agreements After Separation: Which One Actually Protects You?

When separating couples reach agreement about property and finances, the next critical question is often overlooked: How do you formalise that agreement so it is actually enforceable and protected? In Australia, there are two primary options under the Family Law Act 1975: Both can finalise financial matters. However, they operate very differently and offer different […]
How Long Do You Have to Start Property Proceedings After Separation?

When a relationship ends, it can take time for people to consider how their property and finances should be divided. However, Australian family law imposes time limits for starting property settlement proceedings. Understanding these time limits is important, as missing them can make resolving financial matters more complicated. Time Limits After Divorce For married couples, […]
Can I Keep the Family Home After Separation in Australia?

How to Buy Out Your Ex in NSW For many separating couples, the family home is the most valuable and emotionally significant asset. At South Coast Family Law Group, we are frequently asked, can I keep the house after separation? The answer is yes, but it depends on your individual circumstances, your financial position, and […]
What Happens to the Mortgage If We Separate in Australia

Separation is already a stressful time, and uncertainty about the mortgage can make it significantly harder. A common question family lawyers are asked is what happens to the mortgage after separation, and who is responsible for continuing repayments. The short answer is that separation does not change your legal obligations to the lender. However, how […]
Fixed Fee Consent Orders : Parenting and Property Agreements Made Simple

One of the most common concerns for clients in family law is uncertainty around legal costs. At South Coast Family Law Group, we offer fixed fee Consent Order services, where appropriate, to provide transparency and confidence from the outset. Whether your agreement relates to property settlement, parenting arrangements, or both, we can assist in turning […]
Who Gets to Stay in the House After Separation in NSW?

Who Can Stay in the Family Home After Separation in NSW? Understanding your rights, the law and practical options when your relationship ends Separation can be one of the most stressful times in a person’s life, especially when the future of the family home is unresolved. Many clients ask: “Do I have to leave the […]
Case Law Update: Shinohara & Shinohara [2025] FedCFamC1A 126 (23 July 2025)

This decision by the Full Court of the Federal Circuit and Family Court of Australia represents a shift in how financial proceedings are conducted under the post 10 June 2025 amendments to the Family Law Act. The Full Court has made it clear that the era of “add backs” is over in the traditional sense. […]
Is There a Time Limit to Resolve My Property Matter?

Understanding Property Settlement Timeframes Under Australian Family Law When going through a separation or divorce, it’s natural to want space before dealing with legal and financial matters. However, it’s important to understand that time limits apply to resolving property settlements in Australia—and missing those deadlines can have serious consequences. At South Coast Family Law Group, […]
Should We Wait to Finalise Our Property Settlement?

Understanding the Risks of Delaying Property Settlements in Australia Separation is a challenging time, filled with emotional and financial complexities. One critical decision couples face is whether to finalise their property settlement promptly or delay the process. At South Coast Family Law Group, we often encounter clients uncertain about the timing of their property settlements. […]