Separation Checklist Australia
Separating and divorcing can be very daunting and overwhelming, but at Simple Separation we're here to help you navigate through the process of separation in Australia. Whilst no separation is the same as another, there are a few steps that everyone should consider.
To get started, we suggest reading through this separation checklist, which will give you an idea of things to carefully plan for and action.
Step One: Immediate actions
We’ve compiled six practical and immediate actions you should take when you first make the decision to separate.
• Change your password and logins
• Collect copies of all documents and keep them in one place for easy reference
• Open your own private separate bank account
• Work out what a budget would look like post-separation
• Stay physically and mentally healthy – make this a priority
• Stay amicable as much as possible with your soon to be ex
Step Two: Pre-separation
01
Do your research
Before jumping straight into a separation, learn about the different processes of separation and divorce. How you decide to separate can determine the impact on you and your children.. Write down any questions you may have and book a free consultation at Simple Separation.
02
Talk to someone
Separating isn’t easy, and it’s important to look after your own wellbeing through the process. Seek professional advice if needed from a psychologist or divorce coach. Tell your family once you and your partner have worked out your separation strategy.
03
Separation goals
Before consulting with your partner, think about what you envision for the separation. What do you want from the process? What do you want the final arrangement to look like? This step can be especially helpful for those who are unsure about how their partner will react to the separation.
04
Parenting plan
Sit down with your partner and write a detailed parenting plan for your children, including the needs for your children’s health, activities and overall wellbeing. Update their school about the family situation and ensure all the details such as contact numbers and addresses are up to date.
05
Children
Talk to your children as they can sense something is going on and alleviate their concerns. Answer their questions. You may decide to seek professional assistance in helping your children deal with the separation.
06
Living situation
Talk to your partner about where you both will be living during and after the separation. Being in close proximity during a separation can cause tension and conflict. While living separately during a separation is not always achievable, have a think about what works best for you. Do not leave the house before seeking professional advice.
07
Family pets
Decide who will care for family pets during and after the separation.
08
Mental wellbeing:
Take a moment to plan for your own mental recovery post the separation. Plan in some time for yourself to ensure you have the energy to get through what can be a veery stressful time.
Step Three: Financial Affairs
01
Divide assets and property
Make a detail list of all your assets and liabilities and consider how these will be divided between you and your partner. Don’t forget to include both your financial and non-financial contributions to the relationship.
02
Pre-finance approval
It is a good idea to contact your bank or broker for pre-finance approval if you are wanting a property to be transferred to you as part of your settlement. At the Bank of Queensland, they offer a free service for separating couples where they work with you and look at serviceability to refinance. Contact Diny.Field@boq.com.au
03
Revise your will
Update your will to reflect a new power of attorney and beneficiaries. If you don't have a will, now is a good time to create one.
04
Living expenses
When you separate, it's important that you are financially independent from your partner. Go through all your family’s current living expenses and create a new budget for the future.
05
Bank Accounts
Before jumping straight into a separation, do your due diligence and learn about the process of separation and divorce. Write down any questions you may have and speak with us at Simple Separation
06
Update your work
Notify your employer with the details to your sole bank account, in case your salary was previously paid to your joint account.
Step Four: Personal Details
01
Update your medical
Take a look at your Medicare and private health insurance. Update all personal details and check if your policy needs to be updated based on your new circumstances. Ensure that your emergency contact is updated too.
02
Online passwords
For your privacy and security, we recommend updating your passwords to online platforms and accounts, including your email and Facebook.
03
Change of address
Take the time to update the address on your bank accounts, insurances, utilities, passport, drivers’ license, medical records, will, insurance policies, employment records, tax dept, and electoral roll. A tip is to set-up a mail forwarding with the post office.
Starting the separation process doesn’t always have to be another cost to think about.
Book a free 30 minute consultation with us at Simple Separation today to find out why we provide one of the most affordable separation and divorce methods available.