In 2009 the Commonwealth government placed de facto relationships under the Family Law Act 1975.

This means that de facto relationships are now treated almost the same as marriages.

If you have been in a de facto relationship that has now ended, you have the same rights as a husband or wife does at the end of a marriage. Have a look at our page on 'Dividing Your Assets.'

There is often a very difficult question as to whether a de facto relationship existed at all, or when it started or ended. 

The law as to what is a 'de facto' relationship is complex and still changing rapidly. It involves a consideration of things like:

1.  How long you and your partner lived together. 

2. The extent to which your money was mixed and you relied on each other financially. 

3. A sexual relationship. 

4. Whether other people see you as a couple. 

5. Whether you were both committed to the relationship.

However there is no one thing that can make or break a de facto relationship. You don't need to tick all the boxes.

This is an area that we have extensive experience in and can advise you on whether the court is likely to agree that you have been in a de facto relationship.