In December 2000 the Federal Government passed amendments to the Family Law Act which provide for the making of binding financial agreements before marriage, during marriage, or after separation and divorce.
In June 2001 the Family Law Legislation Amendment (Superannuation) Act was passed with the result that superannuation interests of separating couples will soon be able to split, either by agreement or by court order.
In order to properly advise thier clients, family lawyers and accountants need to be aware of the changes, as well as existing taxation provisions that relate specifically to divorcing couples.