News 56K views since yesterday

Moving in together can bring marriage-like obligations, lawyer explains

9 News Australia's Today interview examines de facto relationships, property settlements and why verbal promises are no substitute for formal agreements.

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9 News Australia Story of November 1, 2026Trari Newsroom

Why this story? One of 9 News Australia's most watched videos since yesterday, with 56,072 views.

Major legal check before moving in with your partner | 9 News Australia

Things we can learn from the video

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0:46O'Donnell outlines study findings about young Australians' misunderstandings of de facto rights and separation.
1:21Fordham explains that courts assess multiple factors when deciding whether a relationship is de facto.
2:17O'Donnell recommends early money conversations, written agreements and seeking advice before moving in together.
2:56Property settlements consider financial and non-financial contributions, Fordham explains.
3:43Fordham describes Binding Financial Agreements and says arranging one requires professional legal help.

Sharing a home can create legal and financial obligations that couples do not expect, even without a wedding. A Today interview on 9 News Australia examines what partners should discuss before moving in together, and what can happen if they separate.

Family lawyer Elise Fordham explains that courts consider several factors when determining whether a relationship is de facto. She describes living together for two years as a common criterion, rather than presenting time under the same roof as the only test.

The interview has drawn about 56,000 views since yesterday, making it the broadcaster's most-watched new video over that period.

Jack O'Donnell, co-founder and co-CEO of JustFund, urges couples to discuss money early, put agreements in writing and seek advice before problems arise. "So don't just rely on a conversation or a promise," he says.

Fordham explains that property settlements take account of both financial and non-financial contributions. Her account is more nuanced than the idea that ownership or who paid the mortgage alone determines the outcome.

The segment closes with Binding Financial Agreements, which Fordham presents as a way to establish arrangements early and reduce uncertainty. She stresses that professional legal help is required: it is not simply a document couples can download and complete themselves.

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