Relationship breakdown is a common life event with often severe economic consequences. To combat poverty in Australia, it is crucial to understand what effect separation has on poverty risk and financial wellbeing, and whether employment is a useful tool of protection. This study highlights the protective effect of economic autonomy, particularly for women.

An independent review of the Federal Circuit and Family Court of Australia Act 2021 (the FCFCOA Act). The report finds that the FCFCOA reforms, combined with the Courts’ own initiatives, have led to a range of positive impacts on the operation of the family law system. It identifies several areas for improvement or a need...

In response to terms of reference endorsed by the Attorney-General, the Family Law Council considered options and avenues for making the family law system more accessible and equitable for separating families. The report makes 29 recommendations for legislative reform, in particular, to alternative dispute options, greater utilisation of technology, and program reforms to the legal...

This research report explores the contexts, care arrangements, and co-parenting experiences of children whose parents live apart, using data from the Longitudinal Study of Australian Children. It finds that socio-economic disadvantage is faced by children with parents living apart and recommends that policy and family services account for and address it.

Cost benefit analysis reveals that for every dollar invested in family dispute resolution (FDR), more than $20 in benefits are returned. These benefits span financial and non-financial impacts, delivering meaningful outcomes for families, the family law system and the broader community. The report recommends increasing FDR funding by 35 per cent.