Strategic advice and tailored agreements to protect assets and reduce future disputes before, during, or after a relationship.
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Before marriage
or moving in
Advice and drafting agreements that set out how property and finances will be managed if you later separate.
Agreements during a relationship
Guidance on documenting arrangements once you are already together, including inheritances, gifts or changed financial contributions.
Separation financial agreements
Preparing agreements that record how assets, debts and superannuation will be divided after separation, instead of using consent orders.
Spousal maintenance provisions
Advice on including, limiting or excluding spousal maintenance in a financial agreement, and what this means for each of you.
Reviewing existing agreements
Reviewing agreements prepared elsewhere, explaining them in plain English and advising on any gaps, risks or alternatives.
Risks, challenges and set-aside issues
Explaining when an agreement may be vulnerable to challenge, and steps that can reduce that risk before or after signing.
Clear planning around finances
Financial agreements, sometimes called Binding Financial Agreements or BFAs, set out what will happen with property, superannuation and in some cases spousal maintenance if a relationship ends.
At Bedrock Legal Group / BRLG, we take a calm, practical approach to drafting and reviewing these agreements so you understand exactly what you are signing and why. We explain, in plain English, how the agreement fits with your current situation, possible future scenarios and any ongoing court powers. We can assist before you live together, during the relationship or after separation, keeping the focus on realistic, workable terms rather than aggressive wish lists.
Our role is to help you make informed decisions, manage risk and put clear financial arrangements in place that support your wider goals and relationships
Planning ahead with clear agreements
Financial agreements allow couples to decide in advance, or after separation, how property, liabilities, superannuation and sometimes spousal maintenance will be dealt with if circumstances change. When used properly, they can provide certainty, reduce the scope for disputes and support a more respectful separation if that day comes. When prepared poorly, they can create false confidence, overlook important issues or be vulnerable to legal challenge.
Our first step is to understand your relationship, financial position and goals. We then explain when a financial agreement is appropriate, what it can and cannot do, and how it interacts with the Family Law Act and the Court’s usual approach. If an agreement is suitable, we draft or review the document in plain English, making sure you understand each clause, not just the overall effect. We also pay close attention to process: independent legal advice for each party, full and frank disclosure, and sensible timeframes so no one feels rushed or pressured. These factors are often critical if the agreement is later tested. Where an existing agreement is causing concern, we can review the document, advise on risk and options, and, where appropriate, assist with renegotiation or steps to challenge its validity.
Our focus is practical and steady: reduce uncertainty, protect both parties from unnecessary conflict and support financial arrangements that are workable in real life.
Clear advice on whether a financial agreement is suitable for your situation.
Plain English explanation of rights, obligations and likely outcomes under the agreement.
Careful drafting and review of key clauses, disclosure schedules and implementation steps.
Attention to process, including independent advice, timing and full financial disclosure.
Options where an existing agreement is causing concern or may be vulnerable to challenge.
Proportionate strategies that aim to reduce future disputes and legal costs.
Your Bedrock Team
Meet the team behind Bedrock Legal Group / BRLG. When things feel uncertain, you don’t have to handle it alone. We’re committed to guiding you through each step, so you feel supported, informed, and in control from start to finish.
Brendan Rothschild
Principal Solicitor
Jessica Szylkrot
Practice Manager
Rebecca Rothschild
Business Support Manager
Pavani Weeratunge
Solicitor
Rony Patel
Solicitor
Tiffany Vainer
Solicitor
Jananie Munasinghe
Solicitor
Thomas Arrigo
Solicitor
Damian Van Gaans
Graduate Lawyer
Chloe Ziola
Bookkeeper
Ellen Creagan
Bookkeeper
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a financial agreement?
A financial agreement is a contract under the Family Law Act that sets how property, superannuation and, sometimes, spousal maintenance will be divided if you separate.
Do we both need our own lawyer?
Yes. For an agreement to be binding, each of you must receive independent legal advice from your own lawyer about its effect, and the advantages and disadvantages of signing.
Are financial agreements always binding?
No. Even if the formal requirements are met, a court can sometimes set aside an agreement because of non-disclosure, pressure, major changes in circumstances or unfair terms.
When is the best time to make a financial agreement?
It depends on your situation. Agreements can be made before living together, during the relationship or after separation; the key is having enough time, advice and genuine choice.
Can an existing financial agreement be changed or set aside?
Sometimes. You may replace the agreement, renegotiate terms, or ask the Court to set it aside because of non-disclosure, pressure, major changes or unfair terms.
Can I enter into a financial agreement if I am already living with my partner?
Yes. A financial agreement can be entered into during a relationship, including when you are already living together. It can be used to set out how assets, liabilities, and financial resources will be dealt with if the relationship breaks down.
Can I enter into a financial agreement after the relationship has ended?
Yes. A financial agreement can also be made after separation. In some cases, it can be used to formally record how financial matters have been resolved, provided the legal requirements are met.
What is the difference between a financial agreement made before, during, or after a relationship?
A financial agreement can be made at different stages of a relationship, including before a relationship begins, during the relationship, or after separation. The main difference is the timing and purpose of the agreement. Depending on your circumstances, it may be used to protect assets at the start of a relationship, clarify financial arrangements during the relationship, or formalise a financial settlement after separation.
Languages
We assist clients from diverse backgrounds and can provide support in multiple languages,
including through interpreters where required.
