So you are separating?
It is important to recognise that separation is a big life event. You are separated when you and your partner are no longer living together or having a shared life together. There could be some difficulties ahead and sometimes separation can be an emotional roller coaster. It is also important to recognise that you will get through it. If you have children, they will adapt and get through it too.
When we live with someone we share our love, time, children, financial resources, friends, family, home, and identity. When we separate, somehow, we have to change many facets of our lives. But, it is okay, you can make it happen one step at a time.
Married?
When it comes to married couples, you will need to consider divorce, property settlement, spousal maintenance, child support and parenting arrangements.
De Facto?
When it comes to de facto couples, you will need to consider property settlement, de facto spousal maintenance, child support and parenting arrangements.
I’m Separated, What do I do Now?
There is a range of matters to consider after separation, and we don’t just mean the family law issues. While the family law issues are important, there are a range of practical considerations which if dealt with early on, can help you move on.
Practical To Do’s After Separation
Change of Address. Notify all organisations of a change in your address:
- Driver’s license authority
- Centrelink
- School
- Other government organisations
- Bank, credit union & credit card provider
- Phone & Internet provider
- Your family doctor or GP
- Your employer
- Childcare centre
Change your Will and Superannuation Death Benefit Nomination. After you separate, you may like to consider updating your Will and change your superannuation death benefit nomination.
Mail Redirection. Do you need to redirect your mail with Australia Post?
Joint Accounts. Do you need to close any joint accounts or stop access to a joint credit card, mortgage overdraft or another debt facility?
Utility Accounts. Do you need to stop or transfer any utilities or change the account holder?
- Water
- Electricity
- Gas
- Phone
- Internet
- Newspaper
- Council rates
Separation and Children
Care Arrangements. You should always act in the bests interests of the children, with safety as the paramount issue. If appropriate, try to agree on any care arrangements for your children. This can include:
- Weekly or fortnightly arrangements.
- Interim school holidays
- End of year school holidays
- Easter & Christmas
- Children’s birthdays
- Mother’s Day and Father’s Day
- Religious or cultural holidays
Remember, don’t use the children as pawns in your separation, let your child be a child. Where possible, the children should see each parent on a shared care basis, subject to safety and practicality.
Payments for Children and Families. When you separate and share the care of children, you may only be entitled to a proportion of any eligible payment for the time the child is in your care.
Link for payments available to families.
Child Support. You may need to consider your child support right and your child support responsibilities. There is a range of items that can assist including:
Contact Us for a Free Case Evaluation
To schedule a free case evaluation, complete the form or contact us via chat or phone at 1800 572 417.
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