We have all heard about ‘Pre-Nups’ in American movies and reality TV shows of the rich and famous, but what are they and are they applicable to the average person?

The world is your oyster were words often said to my sisters and I by my parents when we were growing up. It’s not surprising then that as soon as I could I followed my parents in their expat journey to Hong Kong where I met my husband who was also living his best life as a young expat engineer.

This is the first instalment of a series dedicated to lifestyle, wellbeing and the simple things in life! Enjoy!

First things first – superannuation is property!

The first thing to know about superannuation in the family law context is that it is treated as a special type of property under the Family Law Act. It is an asset, that is held in trust until you have met a condition for it’s release and it is always taken into account when considering a division of property in family law.

After what was an extremely difficult year but also a time to check in with ourselves and re-evaluate priorities, the year 2021 is a time for action.

Overcoming our collective hibernation and venturing out will be something to get used to and something that should be celebrated because we worked hard for this! Although now the problem is actually getting a reservation at our favourite restaurants.

Short answer – yes! Provided you meet certain criteria, detailed further below…

COVID created chaos at the start of the year, it is hard to believe that it is already September, and that we all still have access to toilet paper!   The initial lockdown and adaptations we have made have soon become the new norm and it is hard to think that we will have to go back to the hustle and bustle of ‘real’ life.   Back to peak-hour traffic, ferrying kids to this that and the other. Spending more time away from family and becoming more focused on work, deadlines and appointments. How did we ever do it before lockdown?

Separating can be an extremely difficult time for many, particularly where there are children involved. We are here to help you to negotiate arrangements for the ongoing care and support of your child or children. Let’s start at the…start. In this article you will find a breakdown of some of the legal terminology and key concepts around parenting. We will also break down a few myths!

The intimidating realisation that succumbed with the Premier’s announcement of another six-week hard lockdown seemed to ripple across the State. As many were out and about adjusting to the new normal of wearing masks and donning hand sanitiser upon entry into shops and supermarkets, the stark reality of our situation in Melbourne hit us with full force.