This snapshot examines how contemporary couple relationships are evolving, and how Australia’s family law framework must work to keep pace with changing arrangements while at the same time continuing to play its protective role. In Australia today, couple relationships may be legally recognised as: marriages, registered relationships and de facto relationships. 

The snapshot considers: 

• what contemporary couple relationships look like in Australia
• how attitudes towards couple relationships are changing 
• how couples share family and financial responsibilities and manage assets 
• whether the law is keeping pace with these developments.