Lyon Legal Services – Supporting Separating Couples Across Northern NSW
Big changes are coming to the way property settlements are handled after separation. From 10 June 2025, updates to the Family Law Act 1975 will reshape how separating couples – whether in court or negotiating privately – divide their finances, assets, and even pets.
At Lyon Legal Services, we know separation can be stressful and emotionally challenging. That’s why Neurelle Lyon (Principal Solicitor), Tamaris Hoffman, and Monique Morrison are here to provide supportive, professional, and straightforward legal advice across Northern NSW.
What’s Changing?
These changes will apply whether you’re:
Already in court (unless your final hearing has started), or
Negotiating outside court with the help of your solicitor, mediator, or Parenting Coordinator.
Let’s break it down so you can understand how these updates may affect you.
1️⃣ A Clearer Step-by-Step Process for Property Settlements
Under the new law, all separating couples – including those negotiating privately – must follow the same structured process as the courts:
Identify all assets and debts
This includes homes, vehicles, superannuation, loans, credit card debt, etc.
Assess contributions
Not just financial, but also non-financial (e.g. homemaking, parenting).
Evaluate future needs
Age, health, income-earning capacity, and the care of children are considered.
Make orders only if just and equitable
The court (or your legal team) must ensure fairness in all decisions.
At Lyon Legal Services, we guide you through each step to ensure your rights are protected and your future is secure.
2️⃣ Family Violence Must Now Be Considered
For the first time, the economic impact of family violence will legally influence property settlements.
If a person has:
Been stopped from working
Had their finances controlled
Incurred ongoing health or counselling costs due to violence
…these effects must now be considered when determining financial contributions and future needs.
Additionally, financial abuse – where one partner controls or withholds money – is recognised as a form of family violence.
⚠️ These changes offer much-needed protection and fairness for victims of abuse. Our team is trauma-informed and experienced in navigating sensitive family law matters.
3️⃣ Companion Animals (Pets) Get Their Day in Court
From 10 June 2025, the court can consider:
Who the animal is attached to (including the children)
Whether there’s a history of abuse towards the pet
However, joint custody or sharing arrangements will not be ordered. One party will be given sole responsibility, if necessary.
Have a family pet? Talk to us about making arrangements before the court decides for you.
4️⃣ Duty of Full Financial Disclosure Strengthened
It’s now enshrined in the Family Law Act: separating couples must fully and honestly disclose all financial information.
This includes:
- Bank accounts
- Superannuation
- Assets held in other names
- Debts and liabilities
- Failure to comply may result in:
- Financial penalties
- Part of the claim being dismissed
- Cost orders
- Even imprisonment for contempt of court
Our solicitors ensure that all disclosure obligations are met properly and that your interests are preserved.
5️⃣ Existing Settlements and Orders Still Stand
If you already have a final property order, these changes will not affect your agreement. But if you are currently in court (and your final hearing hasn’t started), or negotiating outside of court, the new laws will apply to you from 10 June 2025.
Not sure if your case is impacted? Contact our team today for tailored legal advice.
What About Child Support?
Child support is not affected by these changes. It remains administered by Services Australia and dealt with separately from property settlements.
How Lyon Legal Services Can Help
Whether you are:
Just starting separation
Struggling to divide property or debts
Unsure about disclosure requirements
Concerned about violence or abuse
Negotiating arrangements for your family pet
our experienced legal team is here to support you every step of the way.
Neurelle Lyon, Tamaris Hoffman, and Monique Morrison are available for appointments across Inverell, Tamworth, and Northern NSW, providing friendly, practical, and informed legal assistance.
Call us on (02) 6722 4898
Visit www.lyonlegalservices.com.au
Serving clients across Northern New South Wales
Don’t Wait Until It’s Too Late
With these new laws just around the corner, now is the time to review your legal options and secure a fair and equitable outcome.
Need help understanding your rights? Book a consultation with Lyon Legal Services today.
