News

Protected Confidence in Australian Family law 07.08.25 The 2025 amendments to the Family Law Act 1975 (Cth) introduce protected confidences, allowing courts to restrict sensitive information—such as counselling, medical, or specialist support records—from being disclosed if it could harm a party or child. These orders balance the need for therapeutic privacy with procedural fairness, weighing potential harm against the evidence’s value.

Is it a Gift or a Loan? Protecting Family Money in Property Settlements 05.08.25 When relationships end, disputes often arise over whether financial help from parents was a gift or a loan. This distinction can significantly impact property settlements. Understanding how the Court treats these contributions is key to protecting your family’s resources. This article explores how the Court determines whether financial help from parents is a gift or a loan, and how that decision can impact property settlements after separation.

The Rules of Evidence in Family Law 16.07.25 In this article, we delve into how family law evidence in Australia is guided by the Family Law Act, Evidence Act, and court rules. Common forms include affidavits, documents, disclosures, and expert reports. Evidence must be relevant to be admissible.

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.

Divorce with Overseas Property - How the Family Court Handles Foreign Assets 17.06.25 At Ramsden Family Law, our experienced family lawyers are here to provide clarity on how foreign assets are treated under Australian family law and how to safeguard your global financial interests during divorce.

Recognising Domestic Violence - Legal Definitions & Your Rights in Australia 17.06.25 At Ramsden Family Law, we believe knowledge is power. If you’re feeling unsafe in a relationship, understanding what constitutes domestic violence in Australia is a vital first step in protecting yourself and those you love.

How Property Settlements Work After a Short vs. Long-Term Relationship 17.06.25 The Court may also consider factors such as children, financial dependence, and cohabitation when assessing the depth and seriousness of a relationship. This is especially relevant for de facto couples, whose relationships may not involve marriage but are still recognised under the law.

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.

International Relocation - Can I Move Overseas With My Child 03.06.25 Can I relocate overseas with my child? Relocating internationally with a child after separation is a complex process under Australian family law. Discover how Australian courts approach international relocation disputes, what factors matter most and how to prepare a strong case.

Do I Have to Sell My Farm in a Divorce? Property Settlement Rules for Farming Families 02.06.25 Dividing property in a divorce is complex for farming families, where farms are often lifelong, inherited assets. Despite emotional and historical ties, courts treat farms like any other property. Associate Nichole Schippani explains how farming assets are assessed, the court’s approach to settlements, and ways to protect your farm.

The Role of Drug and Alcohol Testing in Family Law Matters 14.05.25 Substance dependency is a common issue that arises in parenting matters and consideration must be given to how a historical or current drug and alcohol dependency is weighed and managed in assessing any risk to a child. As part of the management of the risks to children that historical and current dependencies pose, accurate and reliable testing methods can be used in family law matters. This article will explore the significance of different types of testing in family law matters, the beneficial impact of this testing on assisting in determining what arrangements are in the best interests of the children.