No one enters a marriage expecting it to end. Yet many couples do experience separation and divorce. Australia’s no-fault system under the Family Law Act 1975 (Cth) means a divorce can be granted when the marriage has broken down irretrievably, shown by 12 months of separation. Understanding the common relationship stressors can help couples spot issues early, seek support, and make informed decisions.
Please note: this is general information only and not legal advice — please contact VM Family Law for accurate, tailored advice. Our full contact details can be found here: https://www.vmfamilylaw.com.au/contact/
What Are the Common Reasons for Divorce in Australia?
Every relationship is unique, but similar patterns often appear when marriages break down. Below are 12 frequently reported stressors that can contribute to separation. (Remember: for divorce itself, the court does not look at “fault” — only whether you’ve been separated for 12 months and there’s no reasonable likelihood of reconciliation.)
1) Infidelity and Breach of Trust
Betrayal can profoundly damage safety and intimacy. Some couples rebuild with counselling and time; others find the trust rupture too great.
2) Communication Breakdowns
Stonewalling, criticism, avoiding difficult topics, or feeling unheard can turn small problems into chronic conflict or silence.
3) Financial Stress and Money Conflicts
Disagreements about spending/saving, hidden debt, job loss or unequal financial expectations commonly strain relationships.
4) Family Violence and Coercive Control
Abuse (physical, emotional, psychological, sexual, financial, or technology-facilitated) undermines safety and wellbeing. Your safety comes first; legal protections and services are available (see sources below).
5) Alcohol or Other Drug Misuse
Substance misuse can lead to broken trust, financial pressure, safety concerns and parenting issues that destabilise the relationship.
6) Growing Apart / Incompatibility
Values, goals, or lifestyles can drift apart over time, leaving partners feeling more like housemates than a couple.
7) Unrealistic Expectations
Believing a relationship should be effortless or that a partner should “just know” needs can set couples up for disappointment and resentment.
8) Loss of Intimacy
Declines in emotional or physical closeness — sometimes due to stress, fatigue, health, or unresolved conflict — can erode connection.
9) Mental Health Strain
Untreated or unsupported mental health challenges can overwhelm couples. Early, collaborative support helps.
10) Family or Cultural Pressures
Conflicting expectations (from extended family, culture or religion) can create persistent tension if not navigated respectfully.
11) Work–Life Imbalance
Long hours, shift work, or competing priorities can leave little energy for the relationship without deliberate boundaries and repair.
12) Parenting Conflicts
Different approaches to discipline, routines, or school/health decisions can generate ongoing disagreement, particularly under stress.
If you’re facing separation, a Queensland divorce lawyer can be your guide and advocate. VM Family Law helps you understand your options, protect your interests, and move forward with clarity. Call 07 3447 8966 or visit vmfamilylaw.com.au.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What are the legal “grounds” for divorce in Australia?
Since 1975 there has been one ground only: irretrievable breakdown of the marriage, shown by 12 months of separation. The court does not require proof of fault.
What if family violence is involved?
Safety is the priority. You can seek legal protection (for example, a domestic violence order) and urgent parenting arrangements focused on safety. Get legal advice promptly.
What is a “70/30 split” — is that standard?
There is no standard percentage. Property settlements consider contributions (financial and non-financial), future needs, and whether the overall outcome is just and equitable. Outcomes vary widely case by case.
Do we have to go to court to separate property or make parenting arrangements?
Not necessarily. Many people resolve matters through negotiation, Family Dispute Resolution (mediation), and consent orders filed with the court (without a hearing).
How long does divorce take?
If documents are in order and service is completed, a divorce hearing is typically listed within weeks, and the divorce order becomes final one month and one day after it’s made. (This is separate from property and parenting matters.)
Does “fault” (e.g., an affair) change parenting or property outcomes?
Australia uses no-fault divorce. However, risk and safety (including family violence or substance misuse) are relevant to parenting decisions. For property, the court focuses on contributions and future needs rather than moral blame.
Should we try counselling before deciding on separation?
Many couples benefit from counselling or relationship services. It can also assist with communication during and after separation, especially when children are involved.
Final Thoughts
Relationship stressors are common — communication problems, financial strain, loss of intimacy, mental health pressures, family violence, and more. If separation is on the horizon, understanding the legal framework and your options helps you plan with confidence and care.
VM Family Law supports clients across Queensland with clear advice on divorce, property settlements and parenting arrangements — always centred on safety and practical solutions. Call 07 3447 8966 or visit vmfamilylaw.com.au for guidance tailored to your situation.
Official Information Sources
Federal Circuit and Family Court of Australia — Divorce applications, parenting and court process
https://www.fcfcoa.gov.au/Queensland Law Handbook — Separation, divorce, parenting and property (plain-English Queensland guidance)
https://queenslandlawhandbook.org.au/Legal Aid Queensland — Separation, divorce, property, parenting and family violence information
https://www.legalaid.qld.gov.au/Queensland Government (Families / Legal) — General guidance on family law and domestic and family violence supports
https://www.qld.gov.au/families/legalFamily Relationships Online — Family Dispute Resolution, relationship and parenting support
https://www.familyrelationships.gov.au/Queensland Law Society — Find a solicitor and family-law resources
https://www.qls.com.au/
