SPOUSAL MAINTENANCE
Fair financial assistance to help you move forward
WHAT IS SPOUSAL MAINTENANCE?
Spousal maintenance is financial support paid by one former partner to the other after separation or divorce. It is separate from child support and is based on the idea that, after a relationship ends, one person may be unable to support themselves adequately — whether due to parenting responsibilities, health issues, or reduced earning capacity.
The law considers both parties’ income, expenses, assets, and ability to work when deciding whether spousal maintenance should be paid, how much, and for how long.
AM I ELIGIBLE?
YOU MAY BE ENTITLED IF:
> You are unable to adequately support yourself, and
> Your former partner has the financial capacity to provide support.
COMMON REASONS INCLUDE:
> Taking time out of the workforce to raise children
> Limited education or work experience
> Health issues or disability
> Being the primary carer of young children
PLEASE NOTE:
MARRIED COUPLES: Applications must be made within 12 months of a divorce being finalised.
DE FACTO COUPLES: Applications must be made within 2 years of separation.
SUPPORT BEYOND SEPARATION
When a relationship ends, financial uncertainty can be one of the biggest stressors — especially if one partner has been financially dependent during the relationship. Spousal maintenance (sometimes called spousal support) is a legal entitlement that ensures one party receives financial assistance from the other when needed.
At Goldrick Farrell Mullan Lawyer's, we help clients understand their rights and obligations around spousal maintenance, and we work to secure fair, sustainable outcomes through clear advice, negotiation, or court proceedings if required.
Led by experienced family lawyer Gail Sherlock, our team, including Special Counsel Christina Dawson, takes the time to understand your unique situation. We don’t offer one-size-fits-all advice, we work with you to find realistic, fair, and legally sound outcomes that support your future.
