Starting 10 June 2025, the Family Law Act officially recognised economic abuse as a form of family violence. These reforms affect both new cases and current proceedings, provided a final hearing has not yet occurred. This could leave couples who believed they had clarity on property and financial settlements facing unexpected changes to the rules.
A real-life scenario: If my husband doesn't give me money is it abuse
Consider a situation where one partner controls all the finances, provides only a limited allowance, and pressures the other to leave work or limit career opportunities. People in this situation often ask themselves, “If my husband doesn't give me money is it abuse?” Under the new law, the answer is yes. Denying access to money, restricting spending, or coercing a partner financially is recognised as a form of family violence.
Hidden accounts, secret transfers, or restrictions on accessing shared funds are now treated as serious issues by the courts. Under previous systems, settlements may have only considered total assets and contributions, without recognising the coercive tactics used.
What to do if your husband doesn't give you money
If you are wondering, “What to do if your husband doesn't give you money?”, the first step is acknowledging that economic abuse is now legally recognised as family violence. Courts will assess how financial control affects a person’s contributions, earning potential, and future planning. Documenting instances of restricted spending, coerced financial decisions, and concealed assets is crucial for protecting your rights in property settlement.
Evidence of financial control - from withholding funds to pressuring one partner into loans or household expenses - will now be considered when determining settlements. Taking early legal advice helps ensure hidden assets are identified and accounted for.
Is financial abuse domestic abuse domestic violence?
Many ask, “Is financial abuse domestic abuse domestic violence?” The Family Law Amendment Act 2024 confirms that it is. Economic manipulation, restricting access to money, and coercion are forms of family violence. Courts will weigh the impact of these behaviours on a person’s financial independence, career opportunities, and ability to contribute to household wealth. Recognising this abuse can shift property settlements in favour of the disadvantaged partner.
Can I sue my husband if he does not give me money?
Some naturally ask, “Can I sue my husband if he does not give me money?” While civil claims are complex, the reforms strengthen the court’s powers to enforce full financial disclosure. Hiding money or assets now carries legal risk, and the court can adjust settlements to compensate for economic abuse. Those affected can now take legal steps to ensure fairness if funds have been deliberately withheld or concealed.
Why early action matters
Even though these reforms take effect in June 2025, they are relevant now. If proceedings are underway, negotiations and strategies may need revisiting. Asking questions like “What to do if your husband doesn't give you money?” or “Can I sue my husband if he does not give me money?” allows preparation and evidence gathering under the new framework. Early action protects financial security and ensures hidden assets are recognised and fairly distributed.
The Family Law Amendment Act 2024 is more than legislative change. It recognises real-life power imbalances, protects against economic abuse, and ensures fairer outcomes in property settlements.
Economic abuse is now formally recognised as family violence. Denying money, controlling finances, and hiding assets have legal consequences. Anyone facing this situation should understand the reforms and seek legal advice early. Taking action ensures financial security and fairness - especially if you are asking yourself, “If my husband doesn't give me money is it abuse?”.
