Divorce in Australia can cost tens of thousands of dollars and drag on for years when disputes escalate to litigation. However, by preparing your finances and embracing mediation, you can significantly reduce the cost, stress, and duration of your separation.

Five essential steps before separating:

1. Map your finances – Identify all assets (property, superannuation, investments) and debts. Under the Family Law Act 1975, full financial disclosure is required, and having this information ready streamlines mediation.
2. Establish a separate account – Set aside one to two months of living expenses in your own name to ensure stability during the transition.
3. Check your credit – Obtain a free credit report to identify any issues that could affect your ability to secure housing or finance.
4. Seek advice early – Consult a mediator, financial adviser, or family lawyer to understand your options and define your goals.
5. Prepare your budget – Calculate your post-separation living costs to ensure realistic negotiations.

Mediation empowers couples to resolve disputes faster, more affordably, and with less conflict than court proceedings—preserving relationships and protecting your family’s wellbeing.

To help you understand where you stand and what to prioritise, we’ve created a quick self-assessment tool based on the five key areas covered above.

Take 2 minutes to answer 10 simple questions, and you’ll receive a personalised readiness score with specific recommendations for your situation.