Following the 2008 amendments to the Family Law Act 1975, if you are in a de facto relationship and separated finally on or after 1 March 2009, the Family Law Act 1975 applies to your relationship.

A “de facto relationship” is defined in s4AA of the Family Law Act 1975 in summary, as a relationship between a couple (heterosexual or same sex) living together on a “genuine domestic basis” having regard to all the circumstances of their relationship.

There is a common misconception that in order to be in a de facto relationship you must have been living together for 2 years. In order for the Court to make an order altering property interests, an applicant may make a claim even if the 2 year time period is not satisfied, if one of the following exists:

1. There is a child or children of the relationship; or
2. The relationship was registered; or
3. There were substantial contributions made by the other party; or
4. That a failure to make an order would result in serious injustice.

The question whether you are in a de facto relationship will be determined on a case by case basis. The following factors will be considered:

• The duration of the relationship.
• The nature and extent of your common residence.
• Whether a sexual relationship exists.
• The degree of financial dependence or interdependence.
• The ownership, use and acquisition of property.
• The degree of mutual commitment to a shared life.
• Whether the relationship has been registered.
• The care and support of children.
• The reputation and public aspects of the relationship.

If you are living in a de facto relationship and separate from your partner then the provisions of the Family Law Act 1975 which are similar to the provisions for married couples,apply in determining a claim for property settlement or spouse party maintenance.