Who Gets the Pet After Break-Up?

Send us a text In this episode of the Australian Family & Fertility Law Podcast, leading Australian family lawyer Stephen Page from Page Provan in Brisbane discusses the significant upcoming change in Australian family law—one that pet lovers and legal professionals alike need to know.  From June 10, the Family Law Act will formally recognise disputes over companion animals in separation proceedings. Stephen unpacks what this means for separating couples, how the courts will now decide "who gets the pet," and the very specific powers granted under the law.  He shares examples from decades of legal practice, highlights how domestic violence can complicate these disputes, and even touches on Prime Minister Anthony Albanese’s own experience of co-parenting his dog after separation.  Whether you’re a practitioner, a policymaker, or just someone navigating a breakup with a beloved pet involved, this episode offers clear, practical insights into a long-overdue legal update.