Family Law in 2025: A Year of Significant Reform

In 2025, Australia’s family law system continued to undergo extensive reform, building on the significant changes introduced in 2024. These developments reflect a broader commitment to modernising the family law framework to make it more accessible, consistent, and responsive to the needs of contemporary families—particularly those experiencing conflict, vulnerability, or financial imbalance.

A key milestone this year was the commencement of the Family Law Amendment Act 2024 (Cth) on 10 June 2025. This legislation further updates the Family Law Act 1975 (Cth), with reforms aimed at simplifying legal processes, strengthening protections for vulnerable parties, and improving clarity and fairness in decision-making.

One of the most important reforms in 2025 is the expanded definition of economic and financial abuse. The amended legislation recognises that family violence extends beyond physical harm and now clearly includes behaviours such as controlling access to money, preventing a partner from working, or exploiting financial dependence. By recognising these non-physical forms of abuse, the courts are better equipped to respond to harmful conduct and provide appropriate protections.

The divorce process has also been simplified. The removal of mandatory counselling for couples married for less than two years has reduced procedural barriers and emotional stress. This change allows separating couples to progress through the divorce process more efficiently, while still encouraging support and counselling where it is genuinely needed.

Property settlements have been another major focus of reform. The updated legislation clarifies how courts assess and divide assets and liabilities following a separation. Under the new approach, a property adjustment will only be made if it is just and equitable to do so. Courts now apply a clearer, structured framework when identifying the property pool, assessing financial and non-financial contributions, and considering future circumstances. Importantly, the impact of family violence and the need to provide stable housing for children are now expressly recognised in both property settlement and spousal maintenance decisions.

For the first time, the courts are also empowered to make specific orders regarding companion animals. This reform acknowledges the emotional significance pets often hold within families and allows disputes about their care and ownership to be resolved more appropriately within family law proceedings.

Procedural efficiency has remained a central theme throughout 2025. The less adversarial approach previously applied to child-related matters has been extended to certain non-child proceedings, encouraging earlier resolution and reducing unnecessary conflict. The reforms also reinforce clear duties of financial disclosure in property matters, streamline arbitration processes, and strengthen protections for confidential communications. Greater clarity has also been provided in relation to costs orders, including those involving independent children’s lawyers.

Overall, the 2025 reforms reflect a shift towards a simpler, safer, and more compassionate family law system—one that prioritises fairness, transparency, and outcomes that reflect the realities of modern family life. As family law continues to evolve, understanding these changes and seeking timely legal advice remains essential for anyone navigating separation, property division, or parenting arrangements.

If you would like to discuss your family law enquiry or understand how these changes may affect you, please contact the experienced Family Law team at Solari and Stock. We are here to provide clear, practical advice and support. Click on the Book Now button below to request an appointment or call us on 8525 2700 to speak with one of our Family Law Team.