Getting divorced or separating

Last updated: 26 August 2026

There are practical steps you can take to manage your money after separation.

What should we sort out first?

The end of a relationship can feel overwhelming. Taking care of a few practical matters early can help reduce stress and avoid financial problems later.

If you can, agree on some short-term arrangements together. This may include:

who will stay in the home and where the other person will live
how you will pay bills, rent, mortgage repayments and debts
what will happen to any joint bank accounts
where your children will live and how they'll be supported financially.

If you're struggling to cover essential costs, see urgent help with money. Support is available for food, housing, bills and emotional wellbeing.

Ready to take action? Our divorce and separation financial checklist walks through the key financial tasks after a break-up, from organising accounts to updating your super and will.

How do I separate my finances?

One of the first financial steps is understanding what you own, owe and manage together. Gathering important financial documents can help you get a clear picture of your situation.

You may need to separate bank accounts, bills and insurance policies.

You may also need to review shared online banking access, digital wallets and other financial services linked to both of you.

Use our divorce and separation financial checklist to step through what you need to do.

How do we divide property, assets and super?

Many people worry about what will happen to their property, debts and super after a separation.
Every separation is different. A lawyer can help you understand your options.

What is included in a property settlement?

A property settlement can include more than the family home.

It may include:

property
savings
investments
super
vehicles
debts and loans.

Understanding what needs to be considered can help you make informed decisions about dividing your finances.

If you’re unsure where to start, use our divorce and separation financial checklist.

Our net worth calculator can help you record your assets and liabilities.

Use the net worth calculator

What happens to super?

Your super may be one of your largest assets. Many people forget to include it when they separate.

Super can form part of a property settlement. People sometimes call this a super split.

It's also a good time to review your beneficiary nominations and learn more about who gets your super when you die.

Super rules can be complex. A lawyer can explain how they apply to your situation.

What if we can't agree?

Many couples can reach an agreement themselves, but sometimes extra support helps.

If you can't agree on how to divide property, debts or super, a Family Dispute Resolution provider may be able to help you work through the issues and reach an agreement.

If you need legal advice during the process, a family lawyer can explain your options and next steps.

Get legal advice

A family lawyer can help you understand your rights and responsibilities after separation.

They can explain how the law applies to your situation and help you make informed decisions about property, debts, super, children and housing.

You may also be able to get free legal advice.

If you leave, you don't automatically lose your interest in the property. Victoria Legal Aid has information on dividing property after separation.

What happens if we have children?

If you have children, you'll need to make decisions about their care and costs. This can include living arrangements, school costs, health expenses and child support.

Services Australia has a guide for newly separated parents, and information about:

Family Relationships Online also has information about the services available for separated families.

How do I manage money on my own?

Your income and expenses often change after separation.

Creating a budget can show how much money comes in, what you spend, and where you can make changes.

Use our budget planner to track your income and expenses. It can help work out what you can afford and where you might save money.

If you’re adjusting to living on one income, our tips for living on a low income may help.

If you're struggling to pay bills or keep up with repayments, don't wait until things get worse. Our urgent help with money page can help you work out who to ask for help.

You do not have to manage your financial situation on your own. A financial counsellor can help. Financial counsellors offer a free and confidential service.