Family Law issues are governed by a variety of Commonwealth and State Acts. Legal (de juris) and de facto opposite sex relationships are dealt with by these laws. Same sex relationships are not covered by these laws.

In general, de facto relationships are a matter for State Governments because they are outside the Constitutional powers of the Commonwealth Parliament. However, the Family Law Act 1975 (Cth) treats all children the same, whether their parents are married or not, see: children.

Family law matters can be heard in either the Family Court or the Federal Magistrates Court.

In addition to the information here, see our booklet Family Law and You.