Key Changes in Family Law for 2024 in Australia

Child support ensures that children receive adequate financial support after their parents separate. A common area of confusion is how salary sacrificing impacts the calculation of child support payments. Can it be used to reduce your obligations—or does it count toward your overall income? In this article, we explore how salary sacrifice is treated under Australian child support law and what separated parents should keep in mind. If you’re unsure how your income arrangements affect your responsibilities, the family law team at Maatouks Law Group can provide clear legal guidance tailored to your situation. What Is Salary Sacrifice? Salary sacrifice is an arrangement where an employee agrees to receive less cash pay in exchange for benefits. These may include: Additional superannuation contributions Use of a car through a novated lease Rental or mortgage payments School or childcare fees Laptops, phones, or other electronic devices While salary packaging can offer tax savings, it also raises important questions when calculating child support. Child Support Calculations: The Basics Child support in Australia is managed by Services Australia – Child Support. The amount payable is based on several factors, including: Each parent’s income How much care each parent provides The number and ages of the children Standard costs of raising children The key figure used is the parent’s adjusted taxable income. This includes not only regular taxable income but also: Reportable fringe benefits Salary sacrifice superannuation contributions Net investment losses Certain tax-free pensions and foreign income Can Salary Sacrifice Be Used to Lower Child Support? Not effectively. While salary sacrifice reduces your taxable income, it does not reduce your child support obligations. Services Australia takes into account the total value of your salary package—not just your take-home pay. If you salary sacrifice part of your income into superannuation or other non-cash benefits, that value is added back into your adjusted income for child support purposes. The system is designed to reflect your true earning capacity and prevent parents from using financial strategies to unfairly minimise their payments. Addressing Disputes Around Salary Sacrifice If one parent believes the other is using salary sacrifice to unfairly lower their child support payments, they can request a change of assessment. Services Australia will investigate whether the salary sacrifice arrangement is reasonable or intended to reduce obligations. For example, if a significant portion of income is redirected toward super or luxury benefits, the Registrar may: Include the sacrificed amount in the income assessment Adjust the support payable Look deeper into the parent's financial disclosures If concerns about fairness arise, legal advice can be critical. Our lawyers at Maatouks Law Group regularly support clients through these reviews to ensure child support reflects real financial capacity. How the Law Views Salary Sacrifice When assessing salary sacrifice, authorities consider several factors: Is the arrangement typical for the person’s role or industry? Was the sacrifice voluntary or employer-mandated? Are the sacrificed benefits essential or discretionary? Does the arrangement reduce a parent’s capacity to contribute to their child’s needs? The Family Law Act 1975 (Cth) and Child Support (Assessment) Act 1989 (Cth) empower Services Australia and the Courts to assess these arrangements and adjust assessments to ensure fairness. Legal Support for Parents in Child Support Disputes If you’re unsure how salary sacrifice affects your child support—or suspect your ex-partner is misusing it to reduce their obligations—legal advice can help clarify your position and protect your child’s rights. At Maatouks Law Group, our family lawyers can assist you to: Understand how your salary arrangements impact child support Challenge or respond to changes in assessment Gather evidence to support your claims Navigate negotiations or formal disputes Ensure your child receives appropriate financial care Final Thoughts: Salary Sacrifice Doesn’t Mean Reduced Responsibility While salary sacrifice can lower your taxable income, it won’t reduce your duty to support your child. Australian law ensures child support assessments are based on genuine financial capacity—not just what’s reported to the ATO. Whether you’re the payer or recipient of child support, understanding how salary packaging is handled is vital. For personalised legal support, get in touch with the family law specialists at Maatouks Law Group—we’re here to help you secure a fair and accurate outcome.

When couples part ways, a common concern is who takes responsibility for debts incurred after separation but before the divorce is finalised. This period can create uncertainty, and without clear legal guidance, you could end up liable for financial decisions made by your ex-partner. At Maatouks Law Group, we assist clients navigating these financial grey areas with tailored advice and strong legal support. Our family law specialists can help clarify your obligations and work to protect your interests. Separation vs Divorce: Understanding the Difference In Australia, separation signals the breakdown of a relationship, while divorce is the formal legal process that ends a marriage. It’s not uncommon for couples to remain separated for a significant time before officially divorcing. During this interim, either party might take on new debts. These liabilities could later impact how property and finances are divided, depending on the nature and purpose of the debt. Are Debts After Separation Still Considered Joint? In some situations, yes—but not always. The Family Law Act 1975 (Cth) treats both debts and assets as part of the overall property pool for settlement purposes. That means everything from mortgages and credit card debt to personal loans may be considered during property division. Courts assess post-separation debts on a case-by-case basis, taking into account: Who took out the debt and for what reason Whether the debt benefited the family or was for personal use If both parties were aware of the financial commitment Whether the debt was necessary or excessive For example, debts used to pay rent or school fees might still be viewed as shared responsibilities, even if only one partner incurred them. Debts Incurred for Personal Use If a debt was taken on solely for personal benefit—such as spending on luxury items or gambling—it’s likely the Court will allocate responsibility for that debt to the individual who incurred it. However, the other party may need to demonstrate that they were unaware of the debt and that it didn’t serve any joint purpose. Evidence and legal advocacy play a crucial role in these cases. That’s where our team at Maatouks Law Group comes in. We work closely with clients to compile evidence, prepare strong arguments, and ensure a fair outcome in property settlements. How Courts Determine Liability for Post-Separation Debts The Court considers various factors when dividing post-separation liabilities, including: Contributions (both financial and non-financial) made by each party Current and future earning capacity Childcare responsibilities and associated costs The necessity and intent behind the debt Whether the debt was taken on recklessly If it's shown that a person irresponsibly took on debt after separation, they may be solely accountable for it—especially if it didn’t benefit the family unit. Practical Steps to Protect Your Finances After Separation If you’re worried about being responsible for your ex’s spending, here are some steps to help safeguard your finances: Close or split any joint bank accounts or credit facilities Notify financial institutions that you’re no longer jointly responsible for new debts Monitor your credit history for unexpected activity Keep records of any shared expenses or contributions Get legal advice early to understand your options and rights Being proactive helps ensure that you're not unfairly burdened with debts during the property settlement process. Can You Still Be Liable for Debts in Your Name? Unfortunately, yes. If your name remains attached to any joint loans, mortgages, or credit cards—even after separation—the lender can legally pursue you for repayment. The Court may take this into account during the settlement, but lenders can still enforce repayment obligations. To avoid this risk, it’s essential to review all joint financial arrangements and, where possible, refinance or remove your name. Formalising financial agreements through Consent Orders or a Binding Financial Agreement can also provide added protection. Our team at Maatouks Law Group can assist you with these processes to secure your financial future. Final Thoughts: Post-Separation Debts Need Clear Legal Direction Debts accumulated after separation and before divorce can significantly impact the financial outcome of a settlement. While not all such debts are considered shared, those that benefit the household or children often are. If you’re unsure about your financial obligations post-separation, we’re here to help. At Maatouks Law Group, our experienced family lawyers offer clear, compassionate, and strategic advice to help you resolve complex debt and property issues.

Key Questions to Ask at Your First Family Lawyer Consultation

Domestic violence is a critical issue that significantly influences custody decisions under Australian family law. The guiding principle of the Family Law Act 1975 is the best interests of the child, which directs all decisions concerning child custody and visitation. Understanding Domestic Violence in Family Law Domestic violence includes a spectrum of abusive behaviours, such as physical, emotional, psychological, and financial abuse. The Family Law Act defines family violence as any violent, threatening, or controlling behaviour that induces fear in a family member. This comprehensive definition ensures the courts address various forms of abuse. How Domestic Violence Influences Custody Decisions 1. Best Interests of the Child The child's best interests are the paramount consideration in custody decisions. The court assesses several factors, prioritising the child's safety and well-being. Protecting children from physical and psychological harm, including exposure to domestic violence, is crucial. 2. Presumption of Shared Parental Responsibility Generally, Australian family law assumes both parents should share parental responsibility. However, this assumption is void if there are reasonable grounds to believe that a parent (or someone living with a parent) has engaged in family violence or abuse. In such scenarios, the court may grant sole parental responsibility to one parent to safeguard the child. 3. Impact on Contact Arrangements When deciding child contact arrangements, the court considers any existing domestic violence orders (DVOs) and their circumstances. A DVO doesn't automatically bar a parent from seeing their child, but it heavily influences the court's decisions. Depending on the severity and nature of the violence, the court may order supervised contact or, in extreme cases, no contact. 4. Supervised Contact If the court deems unsupervised contact with a parent potentially harmful, it may mandate supervised visits. These visits can occur at a contact centre or under the watch of a trusted third party, ensuring the child's safety during interactions. 5. No Contact Orders In severe instances where any contact with the abusive parent would harm the child's well-being, the court might prohibit contact entirely. This decision prioritises the child's safety and emotional health. Additional Considerations in Custody Cases Involving Domestic Violence The Family Law Act specifies considerations for the court in cases of domestic violence: Nature and Circumstances of the Violence: The court examines the type, frequency, and severity of the violence and its context. Impact on the Child: The physical and psychological effects of the violence on the child are thoroughly evaluated. Parental Capacity: Each parent's ability to care for and protect the child is assessed. Child's Views: Depending on the child's age and maturity, their views may also be considered. Legal Framework and Protections 1. Domestic Violence Orders (DVOs) DVOs are legal measures designed to protect victims of domestic violence by restricting the abuser's behaviour. These orders can prevent the abuser from contacting or approaching the victim and their children, playing a crucial role in custody and visitation decisions by highlighting the need for protective measures. 2. Family Court Interventions The Family Court can implement various actions to ensure children's safety in domestic violence cases. These actions include appointing an Independent Children's Lawyer (ICL) to represent the child's interests, ordering psychological assessments, and obtaining evidence from police and child protection agencies. The court may also require the abusive parent to attend parenting programs or counselling. 3. Mediation and Family Violence Typically, parents must attend mediation before seeking court orders for parenting arrangements. However, in domestic violence cases, this requirement can be waived to avoid endangering the victim. The court acknowledges that mediation may not be suitable when there is a significant power imbalance due to abuse. Conclusion  Domestic violence significantly impacts custody decisions in Australia, with the child's best interests as the primary concern. Courts strive to balance the child's need for meaningful relationships with both parents while ensuring their safety from harm. Legal tools like DVOs and the court's protective measures are vital in safeguarding children in these situations. If you're facing a custody battle involving domestic violence, it's essential to seek legal advice to understand your rights and the protections available for you and your child. At Maatouks Law Group, our experienced Family Lawyers in Sydney can provide the guidance and support you need during this challenging time.

While the internet has brought the world closer, social media has taken it a step further, making it feel like everyone is just a click away. This connectivity allows us to stay in touch with family and friends, regardless of physical distance. However, this ease of connection comes with a need for caution. As users of social media, we must be mindful of what we share online. This is especially crucial during family law disputes, where indiscriminate posting can have serious consequences. The Impact of Social Media on Family Law: The Real-World Effects of Online Words: It's important to recognise that your online activities can have tangible consequences, affecting perceptions and behaviours. Courts now consider social media posts, comments, videos, and activities as evidence in family law cases. If you're involved in such matters, reducing your social media presence can be beneficial. From Sharing to Sanctions: Social Media Mistakes to Avoid: If you habitually post derogatory content about your ex-partner or share personal details freely, it's time to reconsider. These actions can backfire and negatively impact your case, especially if you're seeking a favourable judgement. Understanding the Legal Risks: Crossing Boundaries: Social Media and Family Law Violations: Section 121 of the Family Law Act prohibits sharing information about your family law issues on social media, with potential legal repercussions. Posts indicating violent behaviour, substance abuse, or other negative traits can harm your case in court. Digital Evidence: How Your Online Activities Can Influence Your Case: Your digital footprint can be scrutinised as evidence, reflecting on your parenting, financial status, and the veracity of your claims. Be cautious with your social media behaviour to avoid undermining your position in custody battles or financial disputes. Critical Missteps to Avoid: Balancing Privacy in Parenting and Property Disputes Online: It's crucial to understand the boundaries of sharing information online, especially regarding your ex-partner, co-parenting situation, or ongoing case details. Clear communication with your ex-partner about what can be shared is essential. Digital Hazards: When Social Media Posts Become Legal Liabilities: Social media should not be a platform for venting frustrations or making threats. Any statements or videos perceived as threatening or self-incriminating can be used against you in court. Choose your online words and actions carefully. The Evidence Factor: Screenshots as Legal Proof: The Digital Evidence You Leave Behind: Screenshots of your online posts can serve as solid evidence in family law cases. They can support testimonies or aid in cross-examinations, influencing the legal outcomes significantly. The Role of Social Media in Financial Disputes: During financial settlements, ensure your social media posts do not contradict your claims of financial hardship. Posts indicating a lavish lifestyle can undermine your case. Strategic Social Media Use: Guidelines for Collecting Evidence on Social Platforms: When gathering evidence online, adhere to ethical standards. Avoid deceptive practices like fake accounts or hacking. Ensure any collected evidence is supported by additional proof. Navigating the Challenges of Digital Evidence: For digital evidence to be admissible, it must be verified and authenticated. Proper collection, storage, and handling are crucial to maintain its validity. Any breaches in this process can raise doubts about the evidence's authenticity. How to Protect Yourself: When to Limit Your Social Media Activity: During legal proceedings, it's wise to limit your social media activity. If you must post, do so thoughtfully, as your posts can be used against you. Enhancing Your Social Media Privacy: Familiarise yourself with social media platforms' privacy settings, use strong passwords, enable two-factor authentication, and be selective about who can view your posts. Precautions and Best Practices: Guidelines for Social Media Conduct During Legal Disputes: Exercise restraint in your social media conduct during legal disputes. Avoid posting impulsively and consider how your posts might be perceived in relation to your case. The Importance of Legal Advice in Managing Social Media Risks: A legal advisor can help you understand the implications of your social media activity, guide you on what to avoid, and advise you on strategically using social media to support your case. They can also educate you on your rights and responsibilities in this context.

Navigating a divorce in Australia is challenging, but with proper support, you can proceed smoothly. Separating your finances from your ex-partner is essential and must be done decisively. Open discussions and clear arrangements are crucial to avoid financial confusion later. The Challenge of Debt in Divorce Divorce financial matters involve dividing both assets and debts. Ensuring fairness in both is difficult, especially with debts. Beyond Asset Division: The Hidden Battle of Debt in Divorce Liabilities like mortgages, credit card loans, personal loans, and student debts must be managed when a couple separates. These debts need arrangements for repayment or continued payments. Dividing assets is hard, but splitting debts is more complex, often leading to unfair distribution. Why Debt Division is Harder Than Asset Splitting Partners are eager to claim assets but reluctant to share debts. This common attitude complicates fair debt division. The long-term financial impact and the challenge of equitable debt distribution make it tougher than splitting assets, which is more straightforward. Seeking Fairness in Division Fairness is essential in dividing both assets and debts. Assessing both parties' debt situations helps determine responsibility and whether debts were for mutual benefit. Future financial capacities must also be considered. Equity Vs Practicality: Striving for Fairness in Debt Division Fair debt division requires balancing equity and practicality. While equity involves contributions and financial circumstances, practicality focuses on feasible solutions. Flexibility, cooperation, and open communication are key. A thorough financial assessment, including income, assets, and liabilities, is necessary. The Legal Framework for Fair Debt Allocation: Insight from Family Law The Family Law Act 1975 governs debt allocation for separating couples. Courts consider factors like when the debt was incurred, each party's contributions, and the impact on children in asset and debt division. Practical Steps for Fair Division Regardless of emotions, financial matters must be approached objectively for an equitable debt-sharing arrangement. A Slow and Steady Approach to Debt Division Debt division requires time and careful steps, including gathering financial information, assessing joint debts, prioritising high-interest debts, and exploring options for repayment. Honesty and cooperation are vital. Unveiling Hidden Debts: The Importance of Full Disclosure in Divorce Proceedings Both parties must legally disclose debts and assets during separation. Hiding debts can hinder fair division and lead to legal consequences and trust issues. The Role of Contributions and Circumstances in Debt Division Financial contributions include income, assets, and debt payments, while non-financial support also matters. Financial circumstances, such as income, assets, liabilities, and earning potential, are crucial in debt division. Handling Shared Debts Planning and open communication are essential in handling shared debts. Tackling Shared Debts: Mortgages, Loans, and Unreasonable Debts After disclosure and assessment, careful planning of shared debts is needed. Financial circumstances are considered, and repayment options are explored to create workable agreements. Who Pays What? Understanding the Allocation of Shared Debts Debt allocation depends on several factors, including whether debts were for reasonable household expenses or unreasonable spending. Reasonable debts may be shared, while unreasonable debts typically fall on the borrower. Preventive Measures During a divorce, it's important to stay financially aware to avoid taking on an ex’s debt or losing a claim to an asset. Staying Ahead: Preventive Measures to Avoid Taking on an Ex’s Debt Prenuptial agreements help, but staying aware of earnings, expenditures, borrowings, and outstanding debts during the relationship is crucial. This clarity aids in determining who takes on what debt during separation. Financial Literacy: A Shield Against Post-Divorce Debt Burdens Financial literacy involves understanding financial obligations, budgeting, managing debts, and saving. This knowledge helps avoid post-divorce debt burdens and ensures better financial circumstances. The Power of Financial Awareness in Preventing Debt Disputes Financially aware partners encourage open communication about assets and debts and take proactive measures like prenups. This awareness helps prevent major debt disputes. Taking Control of Your Financial Future Focus on long-term financial consequences and maintain control to ensure a secure future. Reclaiming Financial Independence After a Divorce Assess your financial situation, including income, expenditures, assets, and liabilities, to prevent unfair debt division. Highlight high-interest and long-term debts, and consider your repayment capacity. Seek professional financial guidance for debt-sharing agreements. Legal Recourse for Unfair Debt Division: Know Your Rights If debt allocation feels unfair, seek legal help. A family lawyer can guide you on your rights and assist in reopening your case if necessary, leading to reassessment of debts and assets. Developing a Financial Game Plan Post-Divorce After debt division, create a financial plan for a stable future. Seek professional advice if needed, and design plans that accommodate short- and long-term goals and savings. This helps maintain financial control and avoid future entanglements.

Difference Between Binding Financial Agreements and Consent Orders | Maatouks Law Group. Liverpool Lawyers & Solicitors - Sydney Law Firm. Free legal consultation Call Us Today 02 9601 7222!

The rights of a mother after separation include child support, spousal maintenance and property settlement.

Even though it can be quite a harrowing experience, it is important to get your finances straight so as not to run into problems later.