People with pets know that they are part of the family.
So what happens to your pets after a relationship ends?
Historically, the courts approached pets as personal property and would often be awarded to the owner on the paperwork.
From 10 June 2025, Australian Family Law will now recognise pets as more than a dining room table and introduces the term “companion animal” which is an animal kept by one or both parties to a relationship “primarily for the purpose of companionship”.
The change reflects the societal evolution of the perception of domestic pets in the family unit.
When determining the ownership of the pets, the court can make an order for sole ownership to one person or direct the sale of the animal.
And yes, you can have a shared-care arrangement but you would need to come to an agreement in negotiation or mediation.
The courts will look at who can actually take the best care of the animal, who walks it, plays with it, takes it to the vet, foots the bills and the connection between the animal and each person.
The changes also consider the involvement of animals in context of family violence and instances of abuse.
So, if you have a pet, make sure to be a fantastic paw-rent to your furbabies!
