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2004-2005
THE PARLIAMENT OF THE COMMONWEALTH OF AUSTRALIA
HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES
FAMILY LAW AMENDMENT BILL 2005
REVISED EXPLANATORY MEMORANDUM
(Circulated by authority of the Attorney-General,
the Honourable Philip Ruddock MP)
THIS MEMORANDUM TAKES ACCOUNT OF AMENDMENTS MADE BY THE
SENATE TO THE BILL AS INTRODUCED
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Page
General Outline 1
Financial Impact Statement 2
Consultation Statement 2
Notes on Items 3
Schedule 1 3
FAMILY LAW AMENDMENT BILL 2005
GENERAL OUTLINE
In line with the Government's ongoing reform agenda in family law, most of
this Bill deals with a range of amendments to substantive and procedural
aspects of the Family Law Act 1975 (the Act). In particular the Bill deals
with the enforcement of court orders, introduces the term 'divorce' and
allows for recovery of child maintenance paid by a person found not to be a
parent. The Bill also makes a range of largely technical amendments
intended to improve the operation of the Act.
Part 16 of the Bill amends the Bankruptcy Act 1966 (Bankruptcy Act), to
supplement reforms relating to bankruptcy and family law interaction
presently contained in the Bankruptcy and Family Law Legislation Amendment
Act 2005. These amendments will ensure that the Family Court of Western
Australia, along with the Family Court of Australia, will acquire
jurisdiction under the Bankruptcy Act in relation to bankruptcy matters
arising in concurrent family law proceedings where a party is a bankrupt.
Part 17 of the Bill also contains amendments to the Family Law Act 1975
that supplement reforms under the Bankruptcy and Family Law Legislation
Amendment Act 2005, reinforcing the role of the trustee in bankruptcy as
representing the interests of all creditors in family property proceedings
where a party is a bankrupt or is subject to a personal insolvency
agreement.
Own motion orders in enforcement proceedings under Part VII
Following introduction of the three-stage parenting compliance regime in
the Family Law Amendment Act 2000, it has become apparent that many
parenting orders by consent do not work for practical reasons. Instead of
bringing applications to vary the 'unworkable order', the experience of
courts exercising jurisdiction under the Act is that parties tend instead
to bring contravention applications.
A new subdivision is to be created in Division 13A of Part VII of the Act
to provide a court dealing with a contravention application to vary the
subject parenting order of its own motion.
Divorce order - replacing the terms 'dissolution of marriage', 'decree
nisi' and 'decree absolute'
These provisions are intended to replace outdated and legalistic terms in
the Act relating to the termination of marriage with more modern language
including the use of the term divorce.
'Decrees nisi' and 'absolute' are replaced by the term 'divorce order'.
Just as 'decree absolute' takes effect one month after the 'decree nisi',
the divorce order would take effect one month after it is made. In that
month, proceedings can be brought to have the divorce order rescinded.
The term 'dissolution of marriage' is replaced by the concept of 'divorce'.
A definition of divorce is set out in the definition section of the Act.
Proceedings for principal relief - replacing with a concept of 'divorce or
validity of marriage proceedings'
The Act refers to proceedings for principal relief in a number of places.
That concept describes proceedings for a decree of dissolution or a decree
of nullity or proceedings for a declaration of the validity of a marriage
or the validity of a decree of dissolution.
In keeping with the intention of making the language of the Act clearer,
minor amendments are inserted throughout the Act to refer, where
appropriate, to either 'divorce proceedings' or 'validity of marriage
proceedings'.
Empower the Court to order the repayment of monies paid under a child
maintenance order where the person is found not to have been the 'parent'
of the child
A person who has been ordered to pay child maintenance under Division 7 of
Part VII of the Act and who has been determined not to be a parent (for
example through DNA testing), does not have any remedy under the Act for
recovery of child maintenance wrongfully paid under that order. This is
because only a person who can apply for a child maintenance order can apply
for modification of that order under section 66S of the Act. A person who
is no longer a parent is not able to seek such an order. Effectively this
means that such a person can only recover wrongfully paid child maintenance
by taking civil debt recovery action in a State court.
Generally, only parents who separated before 1989 and whose children were
born before that date could have applied for and can still apply to the
court for a parenting order in relation to the maintenance of a child under
the Act. All other child support applications must be made under the Child
Support (Assessment) Act 1989.
Section 66X in Part 14 of the Bill provides that where a court determines
that a party to a child maintenance order is found not to have been a
parent or a liable step-parent of the child to whom the order relates, and
that person has made payments under the purported order in respect of the
child, the amount paid may be recovered in a court having jurisdiction
under Part VII of the Act. The provision also allows for recovery of
property transferred under a child maintenance order of that kind.
FINANCIAL IMPACT STATEMENT
These measures will have little or no financial impact.
CONSULTATION STATEMENT
The Bill has been subject to consultation with both the Family Court of
Australia and the Federal Magistrates Court of Australia over a period of
several months. The Family Law Section of the Law Council of Australia
has also been consulted and the views of a range of key stakeholders were
provided to the Senate Legal and Constitutional Legislation Committee in
its consideration of the earlier version of this Bill.
The Family Court of Western Australia and the Family Court of Australia
have been consulted in relation to the proposed amendments in Part 16 of
the Bill, which confer parallel jurisdiction in bankruptcy on the Family
Court of Western Australia in the same terms as section 35 of the
Bankruptcy Act 1966 (enacted by the Bankruptcy and Family Law Legislation
Amendment Act 2005).
NOTES ON ITEMS
Clause 1 - Short title
1. Clause 1 provides for the Act to be cited as the Family Law Amendment
Act 2005.
Clause 2 - Commencement
2. Clause 2 provides for the commencement of the Act. Subclause 2(1)
provides that each provision in Column 1 of the table will commence on
the day or at the time specified in Column 2 of the table.
3. Sections 1-3 and anything in the Act not covered elsewhere in the table
commence when the Act receives Royal Assent.
4. The items in Parts 1 to 15 of Schedule 1 to the Bill commence 28 days
after the Act receives Royal Assent.
5. The item in Part 16 of Schedule 1 to the Bill commences at the same time
as amendments in Schedule 1 to the Bankruptcy and Family Law Legislation
Amendment Act 2005 commence.
6. The item in Part 17 of Schedule 1 to the Bill commences immediately
after the commencement of Schedule 1 to the Bankruptcy and Family Law
Legislation Amendment Act 2005.
SCHEDULE 1 - AMENDMENTS
Part 1 - Parenting compliance regime
Family Law Act 1975
Item 1: At the end of section 65F
7. A new subsection 65(4) is inserted to define 'proceedings for a
parenting order' to make it clear that the court has power to order a
party to attend counselling in proceedings for enforcement of a parenting
order under Division 13A of Part VII of the Act, or where contravention
of such an order is alleged.
Item 2: Subsection 65LA(3)
8. A new definition of 'proceedings for a parenting order' is inserted, to
make it clear that the court has power to order a party to attend post-
separation parenting programs in proceedings for enforcement of a
parenting order under Division 13A of Part VII of the Act, or where
contravention of such an order is alleged.
Item 3: After Subdivision A of Division 13A of Part VII
Subdivision AA: Court's powers where contravention without reasonable
excuse not established:
Section 70NEB Court's power to vary parenting order
9. A new Subdivision AA is inserted after Subdivision A of Part VII of the
Act. Subdivision AA contains section 70NEB, which provides that a court
may vary a parenting order if there is an alleged contravention of a
parenting order and either the court is not satisfied that there was a
contravention, or the court is satisfied there was a contravention but
that there was a reasonable excuse.
Item 4: Application
10. The new section 70NEB inserted by Item 3 is to apply whether the
parenting order is made before or after the commencement of the
Subdivision.
11. The reason for the provision applying to parenting orders made before
the provision commences is that without this provision a court dealing
with a contravention of a parenting order application is left with little
it can do, when it does not find the contravention proven, except to
dismiss the proceedings. This will be the case even though it is clear
that what is really required is a variation of the original parenting
order so that it operates more effectively.
Part 2 - Costs and offers of settlement
Family Law Act 1975
Item 5: Paragraph 117(2A)(f)
12. This item amends paragraph 117(2A)(f) so that when a judge is
determining whether to make a costs order (under subsection 117(2)),
there is no longer a requirement to consider whether the parties have
made an offer of settlement in accordance with section 117C.
Item 6: Section 117C
13. Section 117C relates to offers of settlement in family law proceedings.
This item substitutes a new section 117C, which restates a number of the
previous provisions regarding how offers of settlement operate under the
Act, but removes previous requirements in section 117C for parties to
file notices of offers to settle and withdrawal of such offers in the
court.
14. Provisions dealing with filing of offers are now comprehensively dealt
with under the new Family Law Rules which came into effect on 29 March
2004.
Item 7: Application
15. This item deals with the way the amendments under this Part will be
applied. It specifies that the changes made regarding offers of
settlement will apply on or after the commencement of the changes.
Part 3 - Suspension of sentences of imprisonment
Family Law Act 1975
Item 8: After subsection 70NO(4)
16. This item inserts a new subsection 70NO(4A), which gives the court an
express power to suspend or terminate a suspension of an imprisonment
order where a sentence of imprisonment has been made under paragraph
70NJ(3)(e).
Item 9: After subsection 112AE(4)
17. This item replicates the provision inserted in Item 8 (above) in
relation to the court's power to suspend or terminate a suspension of an
imprisonment order under subsection 112AD(1). Importantly, the power in
subsection 112AE(4) relates to the court's broader power to imprison,
rather than being restricted to the parenting order compliance regime
relating to children, as subsection 70NO(4) does.
Part 4 - Enforcement (removal of information procedure)
Family Law Act 1975
Item 10: Subsections 70NN(2) to (7)
18. This item repeals subsections (2) to (7), and substitutes a new
subsection (2). The repealed subsections deal with what happens after
information is laid before a magistrate in the context of proceedings
that relate wholly or partly to a parenting order. Currently a
magistrate can proceed to issue a summons or warrant for the arrest of a
person.
19. The amendment provides that, where a court that has made a community
service order or required a bond to be entered into is satisfied that a
person failed to comply with the order or bond without reasonable excuse,
then it can exercise its powers under subsection (8) without having to go
through the information procedure.
Item 11: Subsection 70NN(10)
20. This item repeals subsection (10) which has no operation following the
repeal of the provisions requiring procedures for laying of information.
Item 12: Subsections 112AH(2) to (7)
21. This item repeals subsections (2) to (7) and replaces them with a new
subsection (2). The amendments are in the same terms as in Item 10
above. Section 112AH applies more broadly to orders made under the Act,
than proceedings that relate to parenting orders, as section 70NN does in
Item 10.
Item 13: Subsection 112AH(10)
22. This item repeals subsection (10) which has no operation following the
repeal of the laying of information procedures.
Item 14: Application
23. This item provides that the amendments contained in this Part come into
operation on or after the commencement of this Part.
Part 5 - Private arbitration
Family Law Act 1975
Item 15: Subsection 4(1)
24. This Part provides for the expansion of matters that can be dealt with
by private arbitration, which is dealt with in section 19E of the Act.
25. Item 15 inserts a definition of Part VIIIA proceedings. This
definition supports the amendment in Item 18 relating to the definition
of 'dispute' for the purpose of private arbitration. For the purposes of
this definition, Part VIIIA proceedings relate to financial agreements.
Item 16: Subsection 4(1)
26. Item 17 inserts a definition of Part VIIIB proceedings. This definition
supports the amendment in Item 18 relating to the definition of 'dispute'
for the purpose of private arbitration. For the purposes of this
definition, Part VIIIB proceedings relate to proceedings within the
meaning of that Part, including superannuation agreements and proceedings
relating to a payment spilt or flag.
Item 17: Subsection 4(1)
27. This item inserts a definition of section 106A proceedings. This
definition supports the amendment in Item 18 relating to private
arbitration. For the purposes of this definition, section 106A
proceedings relate to the execution of instruments by order of the court
to assist in the enforcement of orders made by the court.
Item 18: Subsection 19E(3) (paragraph (a) of the definition of dispute)
28. This item repeals the current provision and inserts a substitute which
retains reference to Part VIII proceedings, and adds three new types of
proceedings which may be subject to a private arbitration under the Act.
Under this change, Part VIIIA proceedings relating to financial
agreements, Part VIIIB proceedings relating to superannuation and
section 106A proceedings relating to execution of instruments by order of
the court, are now included in the definition of 'dispute' for the
purposes of subsection 19E(3), relating to private arbitration under
section 19E.
Part 6 - Change of venue
Family Law Act 1975
Item 19: After section 27
29. This item inserts a new section 27A which gives an express power to the
Court to make an order for a change of venue. This is a discretionary
power as it can be used at any point during a proceeding being heard, and
any such order can be made subject to any term or condition as determined
by the Court or Judge. The Court also has the capacity to direct that
only part of the proceedings be subject to a change of venue.
Part 7 - Definition of disposition
Family Law Act 1975
Item 20: Subsection 106B(5) (definition of disposition)
30. This item repeals the definition of disposition and substitutes an
expanded definition which includes the issue, grant, creation, transfer
or cancellation or variation of rights in an interest in a company or a
trust.
Item 21: Subsection 106B(5)
31. This item inserts definitions of what is an interest in a company, and
what is an interest in a trust. An interest in a company is broadly
defined and includes a share in or debenture of the company and an option
over a share in or debenture of the company.
32. An interest in a trust is broadly defined and includes: a beneficial
interest; the interest of a settlor in property subject to the trust; a
power of appointment under the trust; a power to rescind or vary a
provision or the exercise of a power under the trust; and an interest
that is conditional, contingent or deferred.
Item 22: Application
33. This item provides that the amendments in this Part come into operation
on or after the commencement of this Part.
Part 8 - Appeals
Family Law Act 1975
Item 23: Subsection 94(2D)
34. The amendment in this item indicates that the range of matters for
which an application can be made under subsection 94(2D) are of a
procedural nature.
Item 24: After paragraph 94(2D)(d)
35. This item brings under subsection 94(2D) six additional types of
procedural applications which concern the conduct of an appeal to the
Family Court from courts other than the Federal Magistrates Court. The
new paragraphs 94(2D)(e) to (j) provide for procedural applications: for
an extension of time within which to file an application for leave to
appeal; for security for costs in relation to an appeal; to reinstate an
appeal dismissed under a provision of the Rules of Court; to adjourn the
hearing of an appeal; to vacate the hearing date of an appeal; or to
expedite the hearing of an appeal.
Item 25: Subsection 94AAA(10)
36. This amendment in this item indicates that the range of matters for
which an application can be made under subsection 94AAA(10) are of a
procedural nature.
Item 26: After paragraph 94AAA(10)(d)
37. This item brings under subsection 94AAA(10) six additional types of
procedural application which concern the conduct of appeals to the Family
Court from the Federal Magistrates Court. The new paragraphs
94AAA(10)(e) to (j) provide for procedural applications: for an extension
of time within which to file an application for leave to appeal; for
security for costs in relation to an appeal; to reinstate an appeal
dismissed under a provision of the Rules of Court; to adjourn the hearing
of an appeal; to vacate the hearing date of an appeal; or to expedite the
hearing of an appeal.
Item 27: After section 94AAA
38. This item inserts a new section 94AAB which provides that parties to an
appeal to the Family Court from either the Federal Magistrates Court or a
court other than the Federal Magistrates Court can elect for the appeal,
or leave to appeal, to proceed without an oral hearing. The court has
discretion not to provide for an oral hearing. Subsection (3) provides
that once the parties consent to the appeal or application being dealt
with by oral hearing, that consent can only be withdrawn with the leave
of the court.
Part 9 - Transfer of matters from State courts of summary jurisdiction to
the Federal Magistrates Court
Family Law Act 1975
Item 28: Paragraphs 46(1)(a) and (b)
39. This item repeals paragraphs (a) and (b) and substitutes them with re-
formatted paragraphs which expressly provide that the Federal Magistrates
Court may be one of the courts to which, in certain cases, a court of
summary jurisdiction is required to transfer proceedings.
Item 29: Subsection 46(1B)
40. This item repeals subsection (1B) and substitutes new subsections (1B)
and (1C). Subsection (1B) provides that if proceedings are instituted in
a court of summary jurisdiction and the parties consent to the
proceedings being heard and determined in that court, a party is not
entitled subsequently to object to the proceedings so heard and
determined.
41. Subsection (1C) provides that if the court of summary jurisdiction
subsequently gives leave to a party to object to the proceedings being
heard and determined, the Federal Magistrates Court is one of the courts
to which the court shall transfer proceedings.
Item 30: Subsection 46(2A)
42. This item repeals subsection (2A) and substitutes a new subsection
which provides that where a court of summary jurisdiction hears defended
proceedings for a divorce order the Federal Magistrates Court is one of
the courts to which the court must transfer proceedings.
Item 31: Subsection 46(3A)
43. This item repeals subsection (3A) and substitutes a new subsection
which provides that the Federal Magistrates Court is one of the courts
which may, on the application of a party or on its own motion, order that
proceedings pending under the Act or continued under section 9 be
transferred from a court of summary jurisdiction.
Item 32: Subsections 69N(2) and (3)
44. Section 69 generally requires that where contested proceedings for a
parenting order are instituted in a court of summary jurisdiction, that
court is required to transfer the proceedings to the Family Court, the
Family Court of a State, or the Supreme Court of the Northern Territory
unless the parties consent to the proceeding being heard in that court.
The requirement that proceedings be transferred where there is not
consent is provided in subsections (2) and (3).
45. This item repeals subsections (2) and (3) and substitutes new
subsections which provide for the addition of the Federal Magistrates
Court as being one of the courts to which a court of summary jurisdiction
must transfer a proceeding for a parenting order in contested
proceedings.
Item 33: Paragraph 69N(5)(b)
46. This item repeals paragraph (b) and substitutes a new paragraph which
provides that, even if parties consent to a court of summary jurisdiction
hearing the matter, the court may still transfer the proceeding to
another court (one of which is the Federal Magistrates Court) on its own
motion.
Item 34: Subsection 69N(6)
47. This item repeals subsection (6) and substitutes a new subsection. The
provision currently provides that if the parties consent to a court of
summary jurisdiction hearing an application for parenting orders, the
court can subsequently give leave for a party to object to the proceeding
being heard in that court. If an objection is made, the court can, under
the new provision, transfer the proceeding to the Federal Magistrates
Court or any of the other courts referred to in item 31.
Item 35: Application
48. This item provides that the amendments apply to proceedings initiated
before or after commencement. The reason for the provisions applying to
proceedings initiated prior to the commencement of these provisions is
that under the current provisions many matters are now referred from
courts of summary jurisdiction to the Family Court which then transfers
them to the Federal Magistrates Court. This simply delays the
proceedings unnecessarily.
Part 10 - Terminology relating to divorce and principal relief
Family Law Act 1975
Item 36: Subsection 4(1) (definition of decree)
49. This item repeals the current definition of decree and inserts a
substitute. The purpose of replacing this definition is not to change
the meaning but rather the terminology of the concept. The change is
from 'decree nisi' to the more generic term 'order'. This is consonant
with other changes to the Act to replace legalistic terminology with
language that gives a more accessible meaning to concepts, effects and
procedures relating to divorce under the Act.
Item 37: Subsection 4(1)
50. This item inserts a definition of divorce, which has not been
previously included in the Act. The effect is to make a distinction
between divorce and annulment, to emphasise that divorce refers to a
termination of a marriage rather than declaring a purported marriage
void. Having a definition of divorce provides clarity for greater
understanding of the effect of the Act and the concept itself. This is
an expansive definition of divorce, and is intended to cover divorces
obtained overseas in circumstances where the marital status of the
parties is relevant to proceedings under this Act.
Item 38: Subsection 4(1)
51. This item inserts a definition of divorce or validity of marriage
proceedings. This definition supports other changes to the Act, relating
to terminology, to replace the phrase 'principal relief' with divorce or
validity of marriage proceedings. The concept of divorce or validity of
marriage proceedings describes the various matrimonial causes available
for parties to end their marriage. Parties can seek a divorce order, a
decree of nullity and declarations as to the validity of a marriage.
Item 39: Subsection 4(1) (paragraphs (d) and (e) of the definition of
marriage counselling)
52. This item repeals current paragraphs (d) and (e) of the definition of
marriage counselling and inserts a substitute. The purpose of replacing
this Part of the definition is not to change the meaning but rather the
terminology. The phrase 'dissolution of marriage' has been replaced with
the more accessible term 'divorce'. This is consonant with other changes
to the Act regarding terminology.
Item 40: Subsection 4(1) (paragraphs (a) and (b) of the definition of
matrimonial cause)
53. This item repeals current paragraphs (a) and (b) of the definition of
matrimonial cause and inserts a substitute. The purpose of replacing
this Part of the definition is not to change the meaning but rather the
terminology of the concept. In the new paragraph (a) the phrase 'decree
of dissolution of marriage' has been replaced with 'divorce order'. For
paragraph (b) 'dissolution of marriage' has been replaced with 'divorce'
and the format has been changed to more clearly set out the maters on
which a declaration as to validity can be made. These changes are
consonant with other changes to the Act regarding terminology.
Item 41: Subsection 4(1) (subparagraph (ca)(ii) of the definition of
matrimonial cause)
54. This item amends the current provision to replace the phrase
'proceedings between those parties for principal relief' with 'divorce or
validity of marriage proceedings between those parties'. These changes
are consonant with other changes to the Act regarding terminology.
Item 42: Subsection 4(1) (subparagraph (ca)(iii) of the definition of
matrimonial cause)
55. This item repeals the current subparagraph (ca)(iii) of the definition
of matrimonial cause and inserts a substitute. The purpose of replacing
this definition is not to change the meaning but rather the terminology
of the concept. These changes substitute the word 'divorce' in all
instances where 'dissolution' and 'dissolution of marriage' are used,
consonant with other changes to the Act. No change has been made to the
effect of subparagraph (ca)(iii) in the definition of matrimonial cause.
Item 43: Subsection 4(1) (definition of prescribed proceedings)
56. This item repeals the current definition of prescribed proceedings and
inserts a substitute. The purpose of replacing this definition is not to
change the meaning but rather the terminology of the concept and the
previous definition has been substantially retained. These changes
substitute the phrase 'principal relief' with 'divorce or validity of
marriage proceedings' (wherever occurring), consonant with other changes
to the Act.
Item 44: Subsection 4(2)
57. This item repeals the current definition of a party to a marriage and
inserts a substitute. The purpose of replacing this definition is to
change the terminology of the concept. The phrase 'marriage that has
been dissolved' has been replaced with the phrase, 'terminated by
divorce' consonant with other changes to the Act relating to terminology.
The format of the new definition has been changed to make the definition
clearer.
Item 45: Section 14B (paragraph (a) of the definition of Division 2
proceedings)
58. This item repeals the current paragraph and its use of the term
'dissolution of marriage'. The purpose of replacing this term is not to
change the operation but rather the terminology of the provision. This
change is aimed to ensure the accessible term 'divorce order' operates,
consonant with other changes to the Act relating to terminology.
Item 46: Paragraph 33A(2)(a)
59. This item repeals the current paragraph and its use of the term 'decree
of dissolution of marriage' to ensure the more accessible 'divorce order'
operates, consonant with other changes to the Act relating to
terminology.
Item 47: Paragraph 37A(2)(a)
60. This item repeals the current paragraph and its use of the term 'decree
of dissolution of marriage' to ensure the more accessible term 'divorce
order' operates, consonant with other changes to the Act relating to
terminology.
Item 48: Paragraph 37A(2)(c)
61. This item amends the current provision to replace the term 'dissolution
of marriage' with 'divorce order'. The purpose of replacing this term is
to make the terminology of the provision more accessible. The paragraph
has also been reformatted to make clearer the matters about which a
declaration of validity can be made.
Item 49: Subsection 39(3)
62. This item amends the current provision to replace the phrase 'a decree
of dissolution of marriage' with 'a divorce order' which provides a more
accessible meaning of what proceedings are being instituted, consonant
with other changes to the Act relating to terminology.
Item 50: Subsection 39(3)
63. This item amends the current provision to replace 'the decree' with
'the order' which provides a more accessible meaning of what the effect
of proceedings will be, consonant with other changes made to the Act
relating to terminology.
Item 51: Subsection 39(4)
64. This item amends the current provision to replace the phrase 'a decree
of dissolution of marriage' with 'a divorce order' which provides a more
accessible meaning of what the proceeding is intended for, consonant with
other changes to the Act relating to terminology.
Item 52: Subsection 44(1A)
65. This item repeals the current provision and inserts a substitute. The
purpose of replacing this provision is not to change the operation but
rather the terminology of the provision. This change replaces the phrase
'a decree of dissolution of marriage' with 'a divorce order in relation
to a marriage', which provides a more accessible meaning of the purpose
of the proceeding, consonant with other changes to the Act. The format
of the section has also been changed to make clearer what alternative
proceedings may be instituted.
Item 53: Subsection 44(1B)
66. This item amends the current provision to replace the term 'dissolution
of marriage' with the phrase 'a divorce order in relation to a marriage',
which provides a more accessible meaning of the objective of proceedings
under this provision, consonant with other changes to the Act relating to
terminology.
Item 54: Subsection 44(1C)
67. This item amends the current provision to replace the term 'dissolution
of marriage' with the phrase 'a divorce order in relation to a marriage',
which provides a more accessible meaning of the objective of proceedings
under this provision, consonant with other changes to the Act relating to
terminology.
Item 55: Paragraph 44(3)(a)
68. This item repeals the current provision and inserts a substitute. The
purpose of replacing this provision is not to change the operation but
rather the terminology of the provision. This change replaces the phrase
'a decree nisi of dissolution of marriage has become absolute' with 'a
divorce order has taken effect' which provides a clearer explanation of
the same process, consonant with other changes to the Act relating to
terminology.
Item 56: Paragraph 44(3)(c)
69. This item repeals the current provision and inserts a substitute. The
purpose of replacing this provision is not to change the operation but
rather the terminology of the provision. This change replaces the phrase
'date of the making of a decree nisi became absolute' with 'date on which
the divorce order took effect'.
Item 57: Paragraph 44(3A)(a)
70. This item repeals the current provision and inserts a substitute. The
purpose of replacing this provision is not to change the operation but
rather the terminology of the provision. This change replaces the phrase
'a decree nisi of dissolution of marriage has become absolute' with 'a
divorce order has taken effect'. Consonant with other changes to the Act
regarding terminology, this provides a more accessible meaning of the
concepts, without altering the operation of the provision.
Item 58: Subparagraph 44(3A)(c)(i)
71. This item repeals the current provision and inserts a substitute. The
purpose of replacing this provision is not to change the operation but
rather the terminology of the provision. This change replaces the phrase
'the decree nisi became absolute' with 'the divorce order took effect'.
Item 59: Paragraph 44(3B)(a)
72. This item repeals the current provision and inserts a substitute. The
purpose of replacing this provision is not to change the operation but
rather the terminology of the provision. This change replaces the phrase
'a decree nisi of dissolution of marriage has become absolute' with 'a
divorce order has taken effect'.
Item 60: Subparagraph 44(3B)(c)(i)
73. This item repeals the current provision and inserts a substitute. The
purpose of replacing this provision is not to change the operation but
rather the terminology of the provision. This change replaces the phrase
'the decree nisi became absolute' with 'the divorce order took effect'.
Item 61: Section 44A
74. This item amends the current provision to replace the phrase 'a decree
of dissolution of marriage' with 'a divorce order' which provides a more
accessible meaning of what proceedings are being instituted, consonant
with other changes to the Act regarding clarity of language.
Item 62: Paragraph 46(2A)(a)
75. This item amends the current provision to replace the phrase 'a decree
of dissolution of marriage' with 'a divorce order' which provides a more
accessible meaning of what proceedings are being instituted. This is
consonant with other changes to the Act relating to terminology.
Item 63: Part VI (heading)
76. This item repeals the current heading and inserts a substitute. The
purpose of replacing this heading is not to change the operation of the
Part but rather to complement the terminology used in it. This change
replaces the word 'Dissolution' with 'Divorce', consonant with other
changes to the Act relating to terminology, which provides greater
clarity of language and meaning.
Item 64: Subsection 48(1)
77. This item amends the current provision to replace the phrase 'a decree
of dissolution of marriage' with 'a divorce order in relation to a
marriage' which provides a more precise meaning of what the application
is intended to achieve, consonant with other changes to the Act relating
to terminology.
Item 65: Subsection 48(2)
78. This item amends the current provision to replace the phrase 'a decree
of dissolution of the marriage' with 'the divorce order'. Consonant with
other changes to the Act regarding terminology, this change provides
clarity of language relating to divorce.
Item 66: Subsection 48(2)
79. This item amends the current provision to replace the phrase
'dissolution of marriage' with 'the divorce order', consonant with other
changes to the Act regarding terminology.
Item 67: Subsection 48(3)
80. This item amends the current provision to replace the phrase 'decree of
dissolution of marriage' with 'divorce order'. This change is consonant
with other changes to the Act regarding to the terminology.
Item 68: Subsection 50(1)
81. This item amends the current provision to replace the phrase 'a decree
of dissolution of marriage' with 'a divorce order'. Consonant with other
changes to the Act regarding the terminology of divorce, this provides a
more precise meaning than previously used.
Item 69: Section 52
82. This item amends the current provision to replace the phrase 'a decree
of dissolution of that marriage' with 'a divorce order in relation to
that marriage'. This change is consonant with other changes to the Act
relating to terminology.
Item 70: Section 52
83. This item amends the current provision to replace the phrase 'a decree
of dissolution of the marriage' with 'a divorce order in relation to the
marriage'. This change is consonant with other changes to the Act
regarding terminology.
Item 71: Section 54
84. This item repeals section 54. This removal is aimed at getting away
from the legalistic terminology of 'dissolution of marriage' and 'decree
nisi'. To the extent that the repealed provision sets out the
interaction between these two concepts, its repeal has no effect on the
substantive operation of the Act.
Item 72: Subsections 55(1) to (5)
85. This item repeals the current subsections and inserts substitutes. The
purpose of replacing these provisions is not to change their operation
but rather the terminology of those provisions. These changes replace
the old legalistic terminology such as 'dissolution of marriage' and
'decree nisi' with 'divorce' and 'divorce order'. This is consonant with
other changes to the Act in regards to using more straightforward
terminology regarding concepts and procedures relating to divorce under
the Act.
Item 73: Subsection 55A(1)
86. This item amends the current provision to replace the phrase 'a decree
nisi of dissolution of marriage does not become absolute' with 'a divorce
order in relation to a marriage does not take effect'. This change is
consonant with other changes to the Act regarding terminology.
Item 74: Subparagraph 55A(1)(b)(ii)
87. This item amends the current provision to replace the phrase 'the
decree nisi should become absolute' with 'the divorce order should take
effect'. This change is consonant with other changes to the Act regarding
terminology.
Item 75: Subsection 55A(2)
88. This item amends the current provision to replace the phrase 'a decree
of dissolution of marriage' with 'a divorce order in relation to a
marriage'. This change is consonant with other changes to the Act
regarding terminology.
Item 76: Subsection 55A(4)
89. This item amends the current provision to replace the phrase 'the
decree nisi of dissolution of marriage' with 'the divorce order'. This
change is consonant with other changes to the Act regarding terminology.
Item 77: Subsections 56(1) and (2)
90. This item amends the current subsections to replace 'where a decree
nisi becomes absolute' with 'if a divorce order takes effect', and
'decree' with 'order' (wherever occurring).
Item 78: Sections 57 to 59
91. This item repeals the current sections and inserts substitutes. The
purpose of replacing these provisions is not to change their operation
but rather the terminology of those provisions. These changes replace
the legalistic terminology such as 'decree nisi', 'decree of dissolution
of marriage' and 'decree absolute', with 'divorce order in relation to a
marriage' and 'effect as a final order'.
92. In relation to section 57, the effect of the provision, which allows
for the application by the parties for the divorce to be rescinded on the
basis of reconciliation before the orders become final, remains the same.
93. In relation to section 58, the effect of the provision, which allows
for the application by the parties (or Attorney-General), for the divorce
to be rescinded on the basis of miscarriage of justice before the orders
become final, remains the same.
94. In relation to section 59, the effect of the amended provision is that
if a divorce order under the Act in relation to a marriage has taken
effect, a party to the marriage may marry again, which is the same effect
as the current provision.
Item 79: Paragraph 60F(2)(a)
95. This item repeals the current provision and inserts a substitute. The
purpose of replacing this provision is not to change the operation but
rather the terminology of the provision. This change replaces the word
'dissolved' with the phrase 'terminated by divorce'. This change is
consonant with other changes to the Act regarding terminology.
Item 80: Paragraph 69P(3)(d)
96. This item amends the current provision to replace the term 'the
dissolution of the marriage' with 'the divorce of the parties' which is
consonant with other changes to the Act regarding terminology.
Item 81: Subparagraph 69ZH(3)(b)(ii)
97. This item amends the current provision to replace the phrase
'proceedings between those parties for principal relief' with 'divorce or
validity of marriage proceedings between those parties', which is
consonant with other changes to the Act regarding terminology.
Item 82: Subparagraph 69ZH(3)(b)(iii)
98. This item repeals the current provision and inserts a substitute. The
purpose of replacing this provision is not to change the operation but
rather the terminology of the provision. This change replaces the term
'a dissolution of that marriage' with 'the divorce of the parties'.
Consonant with other changes to the Act regarding terminology, this
change provides clarity of language relating to divorce.
Item 83: Paragraph 75(2)(g)
99. This item amends the current provision to replace the phrase 'the
marriage has been dissolved' with 'or divorced', consonant with other
changes to the Act regarding terminology.
Item 84: Paragraphs 79(1B)(a) and (b)
100. This item amends the current subparagraph (a) to replace the phrase
'proceedings for principal relief' with 'divorce or validity of marriage
proceedings', consonant with other changes to the terminology in the Act.
101. This item repeals the current subparagraph (b) and inserts a
substitute. The purpose of replacing this provision is not to change the
operation but rather the terminology of the provision. This change
replaces the phrases 'that has been dissolved' and 'dissolution' with
'who have divorced' and 'divorce'.
Item 85: Paragraphs 79(1C)(a) and (b)
102. This item amends the current provision to replace the phrase
'proceedings for principal relief' with 'divorce or validity of marriage
proceedings', consonant with other changes to the terminology in the Act.
103. This item repeals the current provision and inserts a substitute. The
purpose of replacing this provision is not to change the operation but
rather the terminology of the provision. This change replaces the
phrases 'that has been dissolved' and 'dissolution' with 'who have
divorced' and 'divorce'.
Item 86: Paragraph 90(2)(a)
104. This item amends the current provision to replace 'the dissolution or'
with 'the termination of the marriage to which the maintenance agreement
relates by divorce or the'. This change is consonant with other changes
to the Act regarding terminology.
Item 87: Paragraph 90(2)(b)
105. This item amends the current provision to replace 'the dissolution or'
with 'the termination of the marriage to which the maintenance agreement
relates by divorce or the'. This change is consonant with other changes
to the Act regarding terminology.
Item 88: Paragraph 90(2)(d)
106. This item amends the current provision to replace 'the dissolution or'
with 'the termination of the marriage to which the maintenance agreement
relates by divorce or the'. This change is consonant with other changes
to the Act regarding terminology.
Item 89: Paragraph 90(2)(e)
107. This item amends the current provision to replace 'the dissolution or'
with 'the termination of the marriage to which the maintenance agreement
relates by divorce or the'. This change is consonant with other changes
to the Act regarding terminology.
Item 90: Paragraph 90B(2)(a)
108. This item amends the current provision to replace the phrase 'the
dissolution of the marriage' with 'divorce'.
Item 91: Subparagraph 90B(2)(b)(ii)
109. This item amends the current provision to replace the phrase 'the
dissolution of the marriage' with 'divorce'. This change is consonant
with other changes to the Act regarding terminology.
Item 92: Subparagraph 90B(2)(b)(iii)
110. This item repeals the current provision and inserts a substitute. The
purpose of replacing this provision is not to change the operation but
rather the terminology of the provision. This change replaces the
phrase 'the dissolution of the' with 'divorce'.
Item 93: Subparagraph 90C(2)(b)(ii)
111. This item amends the current provision to replace the phrase 'the
dissolution of the marriage' with 'divorce'.
Item 94: Subparagraph 90C(2)(b)(iii)
112. This item repeals the current provision and inserts a substitute. The
purpose of replacing this provision is not to change the operation but
rather the terminology of the provision. This change replaces the
phrase 'the dissolution of the' with 'divorce'.
Item 95: Paragraph 90D(1)(a)
113. This item amends the current provision to replace 'a decree nisi
dissolving a marriage is made' with 'a divorce order is made in relation
to a marriage (whether it has taken effect or not)'.
Item 96: Subparagraph 90MI(a)(i)
114. This item amends the current provision to replace the phrase 'the
decree absolute dissolving the marriage' with 'the divorce order that
has terminated the marriage'. This change is consonant with other
changes to the Act regarding terminology.
Item 97: Subsection 90MK(2) (subparagraph (a)(i) of the definition of
service time)
115. This item amends the current provision to replace the phrase 'the
decree absolute dissolving the marriage' with 'the divorce order that
has terminated the marriage'. This change is consonant with other
changes to the Act regarding terminology.
Item 98: Subsection 91(1A)
116. This item amends the current provision to replace 'a decree nisi has
been made in any proceedings and before it has become absolute' with 'a
divorce order had been made in any proceedings and before it has taken
effect'. This change is consonant with other changes to the terminology
in the Act.
Item 99: Subsection 92(1)
117. This item amends the current provision to replace the phrase 'other
than proceedings for principal relief' with '(other than divorce or
validity of marriage proceedings)',which is consonant with other changes
to the Act regarding terminology.
Item 100: Subsection 92(1A)
118. This item amends the current provision to replace the phrase
'proceedings for principal relief' with 'divorce or validity of marriage
proceedings', which is consonant with other changes to the Act regarding
terminology.
Item 101: Section 93
119. This item amends the current provision to replace the phrase 'a decree
of dissolution of marriage after the decree has become absolute' with 'a
divorce order after the order has taken effect'. This change is
consonant with other changes to the Act regarding terminology.
Item 102: Paragraph 98(1)(a)
120. This item amends the current provision to replace the phrase
'proceedings for principal relief' with 'divorce or validity of marriage
proceedings'. This change is consonant with other changes to the Act
regarding terminology.
Item 103: Paragraph 98(1)(b)
121. This item amends the current provision to replace the phrase 'other
than proceedings for principal relief' with '(other than divorce or
validity of marriage proceedings)'. This change is consonant with other
changes to the Act regarding terminology.
Item 104: Subsection 98A(1)
122. This item amends the current provision to replace the phrase
'dissolution of marriage' with 'a divorce order in relation to a
marriage'. This change is consonant with other changes to the Act
regarding terminology.
Item 105: Subsection 98A(2)
123. This item amends the current provision to replace the phrase 'the
dissolution of marriage' with 'a divorce order in relation to a
marriage'. This change is consonant with other changes to the Act
regarding terminology.
Item 106: Subsection 98A(2A)
124. This item amends the current provision to replace the phrase 'the
dissolution of marriage' with 'the divorce order in relation to the
marriage'. This change is consonant with other changes to the Act
regarding terminology.
Item 107: Subsection 98A(4)
125. This item amends the current provision to replace the phrase
'dissolution of the marriage' with 'the divorce order in relation to the
marriage'. This change is consonant with other changes to the Act
regarding terminology.
Item 108: Subsection 104(1) (definition of applicant)
126. This item amends the current provision to replace the phrase 'the
dissolution or' with 'a divorce or the'. This change is consonant with
other changes to the Act relating to terminology.
Item 109: Subsection 104(1) (paragraph (a) of the definition of applicant)
127. This item amends the current provision to replace the term
'dissolution' with 'divorce'. This is consonant with other changes to
the Act relating to terminology.
Item 110: Subsection 104(1) (paragraph (b) of the definition of applicant)
128. This item amends the current provision to replace the term
'dissolution' with 'divorce'. This is consonant with other changes to
the Act relating to terminology.
Item 111: Subsection 104(1) (definition of relevant date)
129. This item amends the current provision to replace the phrase 'the
dissolution or' with 'a divorce or the'. This is consonant with other
changes to the Act relating to terminology.
Item 112: Subsection 104(1) (definition of relevant date)
130. This item amends the current provision to replace the term
'dissolution' with 'divorce'. This is consonant with other changes to
the Act relating to terminology.
Item 113: Subsection 104(1) (definition of respondent)
131. This item amends the current provision to replace the phrase 'the
dissolution or' with 'a divorce or the'. This is consonant with other
changes to the Act relating to terminology.
Item 114: Subsection 104(1) (definition of respondent)
132. This item amends the current provision to replace the term
'dissolution' with 'divorce'. This is consonant with other changes to
the Act relating to terminology.
Item 115: Subsection 104(3)
133. This item amends the current provision to replace the phrase 'A
dissolution or' with 'A divorce or the'. This change is consonant with
other changes to the Act regarding terminology.
Item 116: Paragraph 104(3)(f)
134. This item amends the current provision to replace the phrase 'Any
dissolution or' with 'divorce, the'. This change is consonant with
other changes to the Act regarding terminology.
Item 117: Subsection 104(4)
135. This item amends the current provision to replace the phrase 'A
dissolution or' with 'A divorce or the'. This change is consonant with
other changes to the Act regarding terminology.
Item 118: Subsection 104(5)
136. This item amends the current provision to replace the phrase 'Any
dissolution or' with 'Any divorce or any'. This change is consonant with
other changes to the Act regarding terminology.
Item 119: Subsection 104(7)
137. This item amends the current provision to replace the phrase 'a
dissolution or' with 'a divorce or the'. This change is consonant with
other changes to the Act regarding terminology.
Item 120: Paragraph 104(7)(a)
138. This item amends the current provision to replace the phrase 'the
dissolution' (wherever occurring) with 'the divorce'. This change is
consonant with other changes to the Act regarding terminology.
Item 121: Paragraph 104(7)(b)
139. This item amends the current provision to replace the term 'the
dissolution' with 'the divorce'. This change is consonant with other
changes to the Act regarding terminology.
Item 122: Subsection 104(8)
140. This item amends the current provision to replace the phrase 'a
dissolution or' with 'a divorce or the'. This change is consonant with
other changes to the Act regarding terminology.
Item 123: Subsection 104(9)
141. This item amends the current provision to replace the phrase 'a
dissolution or' with 'a divorce or the'. This change is consonant with
other changes to the Act regarding terminology.
Item 124: Subsection 104(9)
142. This item amends the current provision to replace the term 'the
dissolution' with 'the divorce'.
Item 125: Subsection 104(10)
143. This item amends the provision to replace the term 'dissolutions' with
'divorces'. This change is consonant with other changes to the Act
regarding terminology.
Item 126: Subsection 104A(2)
144. This item amends the current provision to replace the word
'dissolution' with the phrase 'divorce or the'. This change is consonant
with other changes to the Act regarding terminology.
Item 127: Subsection 104A(3)
145. This item amends the current provision to replace the word
'dissolution' with the phrase 'divorce or the'. This change is consonant
with other changes to the Act regarding terminology.
Item 128: Paragraph 123(1)(n)
146. This item amends the current provision to replace the phrase
'dissolution of' with 'a divorce order in relation to'. This change is
consonant with other changes to the Act regarding terminology.
Item 129: Transitional arrangements in relation to decrees nisi made before
the commencement of this Part
147. This item inserts a new provision that deals with the consequences of
terminology changes to this Act relating to decrees nisi. The effect of
this provision is to make clear that a decree nisi for the dissolution
of marriage has effect as if it were a divorce order, on the day which
the decree nisi was made or became absolute.
Part 11 - Leave to appeal
Family Law Act 1975
Item 130: Subsections 94AA(1) to (2C)
148. This item repeals subsections 94AA(1) to (2C), and substitutes a table
setting out the circumstances in which leave to appeal is required. The
table replicates the information currently contained in the provision.
The purpose of this exercise is to make clear what is currently in the
Act.
149. The new subsection (2) restates the current law that an order by
consent to dispose of an application for leave to appeal in any of the
four circumstances set out in the table may be made by: a Full Court of
the Family Court; a Judge of the Appeal Division; or another Judge if
there is no Judge of the Appeal Division available.
150. The new subsection (2A) restates the law in relation to item 4 of the
table (regarding appeals to the Family Court from the Federal
Magistrates Court) which is that where an application for leave is dealt
with by consent, it is dealt with by a single Judge.
Item 131: Application
151. The effect of this item is to make clear when the amendments to this
Part, relating to applications for leave to appeal, come into operation
for the purposes of the Act. Specifically, on or after the commencement
of this Part.
Part 12 - Power to dismiss appeal
Family Law Act 1975
Item 132: After section 96
152. This item inserts a new section 96AA after section 96 of the Act. The
item provides that if it appears to a court hearing an appeal under Part
X of the Act that the notice of appeal does not disclose proper grounds
of appeal, the court may order that the proceedings on the appeal be
stayed or dismissed.
Item 133: Application
153. The effect of this item is to make clear that amendments to this Part
also applies to appeals that are initiated before or after this Part
commences.
Part 13 - Appeals to High Court
Family Law Act 1975
Item 134: Section 95
154. This item repeals the current provision and inserts a substitute which
retains a restricted right of appeal to the High Court from Family Court
proceedings, based on special leave being granted by the High Court.
The new provision removes the current avenue of appeal based on a
certificate of a Full Court of the Family Court on the basis of public
interest or an important question of law.
Item 135: Application
155. The amendment made by item 134 applies to appeals in relation to
proceedings whether initiated before or after commencement of that item.
The certificate provisions described in paragraph 152 (above) have very
rarely been used.
Part 14 - Recovery of amounts paid under maintenance orders
Family Law Act 1975
Item 136: At the end of Division 7 of Part VII
156. This item adds a new Subdivision G - 'Recovery of amounts paid under
maintenance orders', which inserts section 66X in the Act. The provision
is intended to provide legislative support for the recovery of monies
paid (or property or the value of property transferred) under child
maintenance orders, where the payer is later found not to be the child's
parent. Currently, the position is that a person who is not a parent
does not have standing to bring an application to recover monies paid
under a child maintenance order by way of modification of that order.
Effectively this means that such a person can only recover maintenance
paid in these circumstances by taking civil debt recovery action in a
State court.
157. The provisions in section 66X will allow a person who has been found
not to be a person who has a duty to support a child to recover, in
proceedings under this section, in a court having jurisdiction under Part
VII of the Act, any monies paid or property transferred (or the value of
that property) in compliance by that person with a 'purported' order for
the child's maintenance under the Act.
158. Subsection 66X(2) gives the Court a discretion, in cases to which
the section applies, to determine what kind of order that it considers
just and equitable to ensure that any monies paid or property transferred
by the maintenance provider to another person under a purported child
maintenance order is repaid or restored to that maintenance provider.
159. Paragraph 66X(2)(a) allows the Court to make orders for the
repayment of money paid under a purported order made under paragraph
66P(1)(a) or (b).
160. Paragraph 66X(2)(b) allows the court to make orders for the return
of property transferred under a purported maintenance order made under
paragraph 66)(1)(c), or for the repayment of the value of that property
relating to child maintenance.
161. Subsection 66X(3) deals with the situation where the court has made
an order under paragraph 66P(1)(c) for the transfer or settlement of
property partly for the purpose of the provision of child maintenance and
partly for some other purpose (for example, by way of family property
settlement). In this case, the property, or the value of the property,
that can be the subject of an order under paragraph 66(2)(b) is the
property, or value of that property, only to the extent that it
represents child maintenance.
162. Subsection 66X(4) lists some of the kinds of orders the court may
make under paragraph 66X(2)(b), without limiting the court's powers under
that paragraph.
163. Subsection 66X(5) ensures that, for the purpose of section 66X, the
Child Support Agency is not taken to be the 'person' to whom the amounts
of child maintenance were paid, and therefore subject to an order for
repayment under section 66X. The provision is intended to address those
situations where the payer has paid monies through the Agency in
compliance with the child maintenance order as a registrable maintenance
liability under the Child Support (Registration and Collection) Act 1988.
Part 15- Powers of judicial registrars
Family Law Act 1975
Item 142: Paragraph 26B(1A)(e)
164. Current section 26B deals with the powers that may be delegated to
Judicial Registrars. Subsection (1) states that the Judges of the Court
cannot delegate to Judicial Registrars powers to make what are called
'excluded child orders'. This amendment makes clear that orders to vary
a parenting order made under the new subsection 70NEB(1) added by Item 3,
and the new paragraph 70NG(1)(b) dealing with the making of a further
parenting order that compensates for contact or residence forgone as a
result of the current contravention, and paragraph 70NG(1)(ba) which
deals with any other order varying the order so contravened, are excluded
from the definition of 'excluded child order'. The effect of the change
is to allow the Judges to delegate the power to make orders under these
sections to Judicial Registrars.
Part 16 - Jurisdiction of Family Court of Western Australia
Bankruptcy Act 1966
Item 138 - After section 35A
165. The purpose of this amendment, inserting section 35B in the
Bankruptcy Act 1966 (Bankruptcy Act), is to confer on the Family Court of
Western Australia the same jurisdiction in bankruptcy that is conferred
on the Family Court of Australia under amendments in the Bankruptcy and
Family Law Legislation Amendment Bill 2005, and under existing section
35A of the Bankruptcy Act.
166. Subsection 35B(1) clarifies that sections 27, 35 and 35A of the
Bankruptcy Act apply to the Family Court of Western Australia as they
apply to the Family Court of Australia. This means that the Family Court
of Western Australia, as well as the Family Court under section 35 of the
Bankruptcy Act, can exercise jurisdiction in bankruptcy in family law
financial proceedings in relation to any matter connected with, or
arising out of, the bankruptcy of a bankrupt party to those proceedings,
and is not excluded from exercising that jurisdiction by the limitations
of section 27 of that Act.
167. Subsection 35B(2) makes amendments consequential to subsection
35B(1), to extend references in paragraph 35A(f) to 'Family Court Judge'
and 'Registrar of the Family Court' to also refer to a judge and
registrar respectively of the Family Court of Western Australia.
Part 17 - Alteration of property interests
Family Law Act 1975
Item 139 - After subsection 79(10)
168. This item inserts subsection 79(10A) after subsection 79(10) in the
Family Law Act 1975. Subsection 79(10) was inserted by the Bankruptcy and
Family Law Legislation Amendment Act 2005, providing that certain persons
are entitled to become a party to family property proceedings - in
particular, a creditor of a party to the proceedings if the creditor
would not be able to recover his or her debt if the order were made, and
any other person whose interests would be affected by the making of the
order.
169. Subsection 79(10A) qualifies the operation of subsection 79(10) so
that subsection 79(10) will not apply to allow a creditor to be a party
to family property proceedings if a party to the proceedings is a
bankrupt (to the extent to which the creditor's debt is a provable debt
under the Bankruptcy Act 1966) or is a debtor subject to a personal
insolvency agreement (to the extent to which the creditor's debt is
covered by the personal insolvency agreement).
170. This amendment supports the aims of the reforms in the Bankruptcy
and Family Law Legislation Amendment Act 2005, ensuring that the trustee
in bankruptcy represents the interests of all creditors in family law
property proceedings where a party is a bankrupt or is the subject of a
personal insolvency agreement.
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