Important Legal Disclaimer

Please Read Carefully

FamilyLaw Assist provides general legal information only. The information provided through this application does not constitute legal advice and should not be relied upon as such.

By using this application, you acknowledge and agree that:

1.The information provided is general in nature and may not apply to your specific circumstances. Australian family law is complex and individual situations vary significantly.
2.This application is not a substitute for professional legal advice from a qualified Australian family lawyer or legal practitioner.
3.You should always seek independent legal advice before making any decisions about your legal rights, obligations, or proceedings.
4.No solicitor-client relationship is created by using this application. The developers and operators accept no liability for any actions taken based on the information provided.
5.Laws change frequently. While we strive for accuracy, information may not reflect the most recent legal developments or amendments.

If you are experiencing family violence or are in immediate danger, please contact 000 (Emergency) or 1800 RESPECT (1800 737 732) for 24/7 support.

I understand that this application provides general legal information only, not legal advice, and I will seek professional legal counsel for my specific situation.

Men's Support Centre

Men's Help & Legal Guide

An honest, evidence-based guide for men navigating the Australian family law system. Understanding the challenges, knowing your rights, and finding the right support.

The Reality for Men in Family Law

The Australian family law system is designed to be gender-neutral. The Family Law Act 1975 does not distinguish between mothers and fathers. However, many men report feeling disadvantaged by the system, and statistical outcomes suggest that mothers are more likely to be the primary carer after separation. Understanding why this happens — and what you can do about it — is critical.

Research from the Australian Institute of Family Studies (AIFS) shows that after separation, approximately 4% of children live primarily with their father, 65% primarily with their mother, and 21% in shared care arrangements. While the law is technically equal, practical outcomes often reflect pre-separation care patterns.

This section provides honest, practical guidance to help men navigate the system effectively, protect their rights, and maintain meaningful relationships with their children.

Key Statistics

~21%

of children in shared care (roughly equal time) post-separation

~4%

of children live primarily with their father

53%

of family law cases involve allegations of family violence

95%

of family law matters settle without a final hearing

Source: AIFS, Evaluation of the 2012 Family Violence Amendments

Need personalised guidance? Our AI assistant understands the challenges men face in family law.