De Facto Relationships
Same Law, Different Title
You don’t have to be married for family law to apply.
If you’ve been living together in a de facto relationship, you have many of the same legal rights and responsibilities as a married couple when it comes to separation, property settlement, and parenting.
At Assent, we help de facto couples separate with clarity and confidence through mediation and structured agreements that protect what matters most, without the stress of court. Your Agreements are checked by qualified de facto relationship lawyers to make sure they’re fair, compliant, and suited to your circumstances.
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What Is a De Facto Relationship?
A de facto relationship, as defined under Section 4AA of the Family Law Act 1975, exists when two people, whether of the same or opposite sex, have lived together as a couple on a genuine domestic basis. In simple terms, it means you shared a life together, much like a married couple would.
However, you’re not considered de facto if you were legally married to each other or related by family (for example, as siblings or parent and child).
If your relationship meets these criteria, you’re generally covered by the same property and parenting laws that apply to married couples.
With our integrated process, you’ll have the opportunity to consult qualified de facto relationship lawyers to explore your settlement options and prepare for mediation.
Rights and Entitlements After Separation
When a de facto relationship ends, each person may have the right to seek a property settlement or spousal maintenance, provided the application is made within two years of separation.
That means you can:
Divide assets, debts, and superannuation fairly.
Formalise agreements through Consent Orders or a Binding Financial Agreement.
Agree on parenting arrangements for your children.
Avoid lengthy and expensive court processes through mediation.
Assent helps you navigate this process step by step so you can finalise your financial and parenting matters efficiently and with dignity.
De facto relationship lawyers can provide expert guidance to ensure every financial and parenting decision is legally sound, helping you reach fair outcomes while minimising stress.
De Facto Property and Parenting Agreements
Property & Financial Settlements - Divide assets, liabilities, and superannuation equitably, recognising each person’s contributions and future needs.
Parenting Arrangements - Create parenting plans that focus on stability and the best interests of the children, with the option to formalise through Consent Orders.
Binding Financial Agreements (BFAs) - Protect assets or record an agreed property division privately, before, during, or after a relationship.
Experienced de facto relationship lawyers prepare all documentation and ensure compliance with the Family Law Act, so you have complete peace of mind.
Why Choose Assent
Clear pricing with no hidden extras.
Independent legal review arranged for both parties.
Structured, calm process that keeps control (and costs) in your hands.
Online, Australia-wide service, flexible, private, and accessible.
Same rights. Same laws. A better way to reach an agreement.
With support from de facto relationship lawyers, you’ll receive the clarity, guidance, and legal assurance you need at every stage.
Ready to Move Forward?
If your de facto relationship has ended and you’re ready to make clear decisions about property or parenting, we’re here to guide you every step of the way.
Contact us today to discuss your situation and start building a fair, legally secure future.