Property

Understanding Property Settlements in De Facto Relationships 09.07.25 Dividing property after the breakdown of a de facto relationship can be a confusing and complex process, often raising difficult questions about each party’s entitlements. A recent decision by the Federal Circuit and Family Court of Australia underscores just how intricate these issues can be and illustrates how the court applies the Family Law Act 1975 (Cth) in property settlement matters.

The Implications of Separation and Divorce On Your Will 16.06.25 Divorce is often accompanied by a need to reassess an individual’s financial, legal and parenting arrangements. The end of a relationship or marriage can have important implications for estate planning. This article will look at the specific impacts of divorce or separation on an individual's will.

New Family Law Property Settlement Changes Impacting Family Violence and Financial Disclosure 13.06.25 In this article our Gold Coast family law team looks at the recent changes to the Family Law Act 1975 (Cth), made through the Family Law Amendment Act 2024. Some of the changes took effect straight away when the bill passed in December 2024, however, the main updates started on 10 June 2025. These changes aim to improve how property settlements are handled, especially by taking into consideration the financial impact of family violence.

Mediation or Litigation? Choosing the Right Path in Family Law Disputes 15.05.25 Mediation and litigation each offer distinct advantages in family law disputes. Understanding each approach can help clients navigate complex emotional and legal challenges more effectively. Choosing between mediation and litigation in family law is not just a legal decision—it is a strategic and emotional one. This article breaks down both paths to help clients navigate complex choices with clarity and confidence, highlighting any key considerations to guide clients toward an informed resolution strategy.

Section 60CC of the Family Law Act: A Guide to Determining a Child’s Best Interests in Parenting Matters 19.02.25 In family law matters, decisions about children are guided by one central principle – the child’s best interests. Section 60CC of the Family Law Act 1975 outlines the considerations the court must evaluate to determine what arrangements serve a child’s welfare.

Who Gets the House in a Divorce? Understanding Property Entitlements in Australia 19.02.25 When a marriage or de facto relationship ends, dividing assets can be one of the most frustrating aspects of the separation process. Among all assets, the family home often holds both financial and emotional significance, making it a focal point of property settlement discussions.

Part One: The Generosity of Parents - A Gift to Whom?  13.02.25 A common question that arises when a couple separates is how to handle significant gifts from one partner’s parents during the relationship. This is part one of a two part series exploring how parental gifts, such as monetary contributions, are treated after separation and what factors the court considers.

Part Two: Generosity of Parents - Gift or Loan? 13.02.25 It has become increasingly common for parents to provide significant financial assistance to their adult children, particularly when purchasing a home. As a result of this it has become a common issue when spouses separate on how to deal with monies provided by families to the couple during the relationship. In this second installment of a two part series, Special Counsel Matthew Shepherd unpacks the legal principles of proving a loan versus a gift in family law matters.

What Happens When Your Ex Refuses to Pay the Mortgage? 29.01.25 When your ex-spouse refuses to contribute to the mortgage, it can lead to serious financial consequences. It’s unfortunately all too common during separation and property settlements that one spouse either cannot continue to pay their share of the mortgage, or they outright refuse to do so. This article explains joint mortgage liability, the risks of missed payments, and the steps you can take, including documenting missed payments, communicating with your lender, and exploring options like property sale or buyouts.

Understanding Spousal Maintenance: Eligibility and Duration 10.01.25 If you're dealing with spousal maintenance matters, Ramsden Family Law is here to help. Our experienced family law specialists will guide you through the process, offering expert advice on eligibility, application, and defence of claims. We understand the emotional and financial challenges that come with separation or divorce, and we provide tailored legal support to protect your interests. Whether you're seeking urgent or long-term financial support, we ensure your case is handled with care and empathy.

New Changes to Property and Maintenance Provisions in Family Law 11.11.24 The Family Law Act is set to undergo significant updates, making it clearer and more accessible for everyone involved in property and maintenance matters. Key highlights include addressing family violence when assessing contributions and consideration of material wastage and liabilities incurred by parties when making final property orders. This article will explore the new amendments in further detail.

Who Gets to Keep the Family Pet When You Separate? The New 2024 Family Law Amendments 31.10.24 In recent years, pets have come to be seen as important members of the family. This shift in how society views pets has raised questions about pet ownership during family law disputes, especially in Australia. When couples go through the emotional challenges of separation or divorce, one question often comes up: who gets to keep the family pet? In this article, Partner Reece Ramsden explains how pets are treated under the Family Law Act and shares recent updates in the law on this issue.