Dividing Assets after Separation

Are you ever prepared for dividing assets after separation?

While we may dream of a life of marital and domestic bliss, things don’t always go according to plan.

Separation and divorce are facts of life. In fact, ABS data shows that in 2021 there was one divorce for every 1.6 marriages. So, if you are considering separation – firstly, please know that you’re not alone!

It can be a difficult time, both emotionally and legally, with many critical things to navigate – such as the division of assets. However, with some careful research and planning – along with an experienced family lawyer in your corner – you can navigate this troubled time successfully.

Finding a Lawyer

Family law is a complex area that encompasses parenting matters, property settlement, domestic violence, dispute resolution and litigation, surrogacy, binding financial agreements, prenups, and more.

Many people have never had to deal with a lawyer until they separate, so it can be a nerve-wracking experience. By choosing a family lawyer experienced in separation and divorce, based on recommendations and reviews, you can have peace of mind that you are in good hands.

Thinking About Separating? Take these First Steps

1. As soon as you decide to separate, speak to a lawyer specialising in separation and divorce issues. They’ll guide you, offer sound advice, and help you understand the process.
2. Seek support from family, friends, or a mental health professional as needed to help you deal with your emotions.
3. If you are a parent, it’s mandatory under Australian family law for you to attempt Family Dispute Resolution before applying for parenting orders (this is not the case for couples).
4. Work with your ex-partner to reach an agreement about finances, property, and parenting. The ideal scenario would be to negotiate a settlement, rather than have to go to court – which is an expensive and time-consuming endeavour. It’s important to formally finalise these agreements to prevent future claims or misunderstanding.

The 4 Step Process to Determine Division of Assets After Separation

When it comes to dividing your assets, the steps involved are:

Identify and value your assets, liabilities, and resources

List and evaluate all assets, liabilities, and resources held by both parties. This includes properties, investments, savings, vehicles, businesses, superannuation, debts, and any other financial holdings. You may need valuation experts to help determine the precise value of certain assets – especially if there are disagreements or complex financial structures involved.

Consider the contributions of the parties made through the relationship

Consider financial contributions such as income, inheritance, or property acquisition, along with non-financial contributions like caregiving, homemaking, and support for a partner’s career advancement. The duration of the relationship and the roles each party played in maintaining the household and raising children are also taken into account.

The goal here is to recognise and fairly attribute the efforts and sacrifices made by each party during the course of the relationship.

Consider the future needs of each party

When it comes to assessing future needs, factors such as age, health, earning capacity, childcare responsibilities, and financial resources are considered. For instance, a spouse with limited earning potential or health issues may require additional financial support to maintain a reasonable standard of living.

Similarly, arrangements concerning the care of children, including their educational and healthcare needs, are factored into the decision-making process. The aim is to achieve a balance that enables both parties to move forward with financial stability and independence.

Determine whether the proposed settlement is just and equitable

The court then examines whether the division of assets is fair and reasonable in light of all the circumstances surrounding the separation. This includes assessing the financial and non-financial contributions of each party, their future needs, the welfare of any children involved, and any other relevant factors.

If the proposed settlement aligns with these principles, it is deemed just and equitable, providing closure to the asset division process.

Dividing assets after separation can be a tricky process. However, seeking professional legal advice and engaging in open communication can help facilitate smoother negotiations and ultimately lead to being able to close this chapter of your life for good so you can get on with the next.

Bathroom Cleaning: 7 Top Budget & Planet Friendly Cleaning Hacks that Work

It’s a job most of us dread – bathroom cleaning! Check out these tips for quick, easy, effective ways that are budget and planet friendly to clean without buying expensive chemicals that damage the environment.

Replace shower curtains with shower screens

Shower curtains are much harder to clean than shower screens and can quickly gather mildew and mould. 

By installing a shower screen, you can prevent water from splashing outside the shower area and protect your bathroom surrounds from water damage. Install a frameless shower screen and cleaning gets a whole lot easier again!

Squeegee glass shower doors after every shower

If you don’t already squeegee your shower, NOW is the perfect time to start. This is one of the cheapest, easiest and most effective ways to keep your bathroom sparkling – and you will need far less chemicals.

You won’t have to clean your bathroom often at all if you spend two minutes after every shower wiping down your tiles, tub, and screen with a squeegee. This removes water, stopping mould and soap scum from building up.

Clean shower heads and taps in vinegar – without removing them

Deep clean your shower head and taps the easy, hands-free way using earth-friendly vinegar. Fill a ziplock plastic bag with diluted white vinegar, then twist tie it around your shower head or tap and leave overnight. The vinegar will naturally break down and dissolve any grime or calcium buildup. 

Clean crevices with a chopstick

Save the chopsticks from your next order of Asian-style take-out – they are ideal for getting gunk out of the nooks and crannies of your bathroom.  Simply wrap a damp cloth around a chopstick to wipe vents, grouts, taps – in fact, any fixture or crevices that is otherwise difficult to clean.  

Polish chrome and stainless-steel fixtures with shaving cream

Shaving cream contains surfactants and emulsifiers that work as gentle cleansing agents. Squeeze some on a clean rag or sponge to polish stainless steel and chrome fixtures without resorting to any harsh chemicals. 

Use bi-carb and white vinegar instead of bleach

Use basic chemistry for an effective cleaning solution that is environmentally and budget friendly. Sprinkle bicarbonate of soda on all bathroom surfaces (except marble and wood) and spray with white vinegar. It will fizz – now sponge it off straight away, rinse with water and dry with a soft cloth. Magic!

Bathroom Cleaning

While some of these hacks help with cleaning, some are about reducing the need for cleaning – because haven’t we all got better things to do than spend time and effort cleaning the bathroom?!

A-Z Guide of Alternative Therapies - Exploring the Spectrum of Healing Modalities

It seems we are increasingly seeking holistic approaches to health and wellness. In my own country, an estimated 73% of Aussies use complementary medicine and natural therapies!

From ancient practices rooted in traditional medicine, to modern techniques influenced by cutting-edge research – there really is something for everyone looking to tackle those health problems the natural way.

From Acupuncture to Zoo Therapy, let’s make our way through the alphabet for an A-Z Guide of Alternative Therapies.

A is for Acupuncture -An ancient Chinese practice involving the insertion of thin needles into specific points on the body to stimulate energy flow and promote healing. Fun fact: There are over 300 acupuncture points located on the body – each with its own function in emotional, mental, and physical well-being!

B is for Biofield Tuning – If this one makes you think of tuning a radio, you’re not far off. Biofield Tuning involves the use of sound frequencies to balance and align the body’s energy field, promoting relaxation and reducing stress.

C is for Chiropractic Care – Chiropractors specialise in musculoskeletal issues, primarily focusing on the spine. Through manual adjustments which are designed to enhance the optimal spinal function and the body’s natural ability to heal, they aim to alleviate back pain, neck and shoulder pain, etc.

D is for Dry Needling – A technique used by some physical therapists – including chiropractors – that involves inserting thin needles into trigger points to alleviate pain and improve muscle function.

E is for Ear Candling – A somewhat controversial practice involving placing a hollow candle in the ear to remove excess wax and improve ear health. Be careful with this one, as it can be risky holding a lit candle so close to your face.

F is for Float Tank Therapy – Otherwise known as sensory deprivation tank therapy, this provides a unique environment for relaxation by immersing you in a buoyant solution, offering a sense of weightlessness and tranquility. Fans say it’s great for improving sleep!

G is for Gua Sha – A traditional Chinese medicine practice where a tool is used to scrape the skin to release unhealthy body matter, stimulating blood flow and promoting metabolic cell repair, regeneration, and recovery.

H is for Hypnotherapy – Hypnotherapy utilises guided relaxation and focused attention to achieve a heightened state of awareness, addressing various issues from pain management to behavioural change.

I is for Iridology – Iridologyinvolves analysing the patterns and colours of the iris to assess an individual’s overall health and potential imbalances.

J is for Japanese Acupuncture – A variation of traditional Chinese acupuncture, focused on gentle needle techniques and meridian balancing.

K is for Kinesiology – Kinesiology combines muscle monitoring with the principles of Chinese medicine to identify imbalances in the body’s energy flow and promote overall well-being.

L is for Light Therapy – Also known asphototherapy, light therapy uses exposure to specific wavelengths of light to treat conditions such as seasonal affective disorder (SAD) and skin disorders. Some research has also found it to be effective in treating depression.

M is for Massage Therapy – Who doesn’t love a great massage! Massage Therapy involves manual manipulation of soft tissues to promote relaxation, reduce muscle tension, and enhance overall physical and mental well-being.

N is for Naturopathy – Naturopathy emphasises natural healing modalities, including herbal medicine, nutrition, and lifestyle counselling, to address the root causes of illness.

O is for Osteopathy – Osteopathy focuses on the musculoskeletal system and its interconnection with the body’s overall health, using manual techniques for pain relief and improved function. While chiropractors are more likely to use chiropractic adjustments to correct misalignments, osteopaths focus on manipulating soft tissues through stretching and massage.

P is for Pet Therapy – Life doesn’t get much better than when you’re cuddling a fluffy friend! As the name suggests, pet therapy involves interactions with animals to improve physical and mental health, reducing stress and enhancing overall well-being.

Q is for Qi Gong – Qi Gong, a Chinese practice, combines gentle movements, breath control, and meditation to cultivate and balance the body’s vital energy (qi).

R is for Reflexology – Reflexology targets specific reflex points on the feet, hands, and ears to stimulate healing responses in corresponding organs and systems throughout the body.

S is for Sound Healing – Sound Healing uses vibrations and frequencies to promote relaxation, reduce stress, and restore harmony to the body and mind.

T is for Traditional Chinese Medicine – Traditional Chinese Medicine incorporates acupuncture, herbal medicine, and other modalities to restore the body’s balance of vital energy.

U is for Urine Therapy – While there’s no scientific evidence to support its effectiveness, urine therapy involves the application of human urine on the skin, gums, or as a drink for medicinal purposes. (Gross!) It was popularised in the early 20^th Century when British naturopath John W Armstrong used it to treat minor stings and toothaches.

V is for Vaginal Steaming – We’ve got celebrities like Gwyneth Paltrow to thank for this unique therapy which involves a woman sitting over steaming herbs to cleanse and revitalise her vagina and reproductive system.

W is for Water Therapy – Water Therapy encompasses various approaches, including hydrotherapy and aquatic exercise, to promote physical and mental well-being through water-based activities.

X is for EXit – Okay, ‘X’ had me a bit stumped, but ‘exit’ acknowledges that some individuals may choose to exit or abstain from certain alternative therapies and choose a more traditional medicine approach!

Y is for Yoga – A holistic practice originating from ancient India, combining physical postures, breath control, and meditation to promote flexibility, strength, and mental clarity.

Z is for Zoo Therapy – Like pet therapy, zoo therapy involves interacting with animals in a zoo setting to promote emotional well-being and reduce stress. The connection between humans and animals in a controlled environment can have therapeutic effects, fostering a sense of connection with the natural world.

As you can see, the wellness world is buzzing with alternative therapies that go well beyond your usual prescription! But as with any healthcare approach, it’s important to consult with qualified practitioners, and integrate alternative therapies into your overall, individualised health and wellness plan.

So, whether you’re floating in a tank or getting your Qi Gong on, embrace the journey to wellness and hopefully enjoy a healthier, happier you!

Donating Hair for Wigs

One of my nieces is a vibrant young woman in her 20s, who wants to make a difference in the world.  She intentionally grew her hair to her waist – a process that took years – so that she could donate it.

In her own words:

“I donated my hair to make wigs for people with medical hair loss.

On the day of my hairdresser appointment, I was excited about getting a short new haircut. Afterwards though, I did have some pangs, especially when people lamented the loss of my long hair. I really didn’t expect it as they knew I’d donated my hair for a worthy cause. My way of coping with that was to point out that women don’t need long hair to be beautiful.

It gives me great satisfaction to know that my donation helped someone in need.”

How To Donate Your Hair

My niece found a hairdresser through the Sustainable Salons website. Once she typed in her postcode, the site directed her to a nearby hairdresser.

Sustainable Salons is a social enterprise that works with organisations like the Australian Alopecia Areata Foundation or the Cancer Council to make real hair wigs,  as well as fundraise for people who’ve lost their hair.

Preparing Hair for Donation

After the hairdresser had washed and dried her hair without using any styling products, she then:

• Divided hair into small ponytails around the head and tied them with elastic hair ties. The ties were approximately 2cm down from where the hair was to be cut.
• Plaited the full length of the ponytail and secured it with another elastic tie at the bottom.
• Measured the ponytail between the two elastic ties and made sure it was at least 20cm long.
• Cut the hair 2cm above the elastic, then kept the plait flat and dry.
• Sealed it into a snap lock bag and posted it to:

Sustainable Salons – Ponytails
GPO Box 322
Sydney NSW 2001

You don’t have to see a hairdresser to donate your hair. If you’d prefer, you can prepare your hair and mail it yourself. Detailed instructions on how to do it are available on the Sustainable Salons website.

What Happens Next?

Once they’re received, ponytails are sorted and graded by hand, according to the colour, hair type and length.

Then, they’re sent to wigmakers and charitable organisations like Australia Alopecia Areata Foundation (AAAF) where they’re turned into charitable wigs for children or to fund life-changing programs.

How is Hair Made into Wigs?

The ponytails are brushed carefully to remove any knots. The hair is then separated into small strands, and a collection of strands is sewn onto a super-thin cloth strip known as a weft. These wefts are sewn onto the sides and back of a wig cap.

It takes at least 10 to 12 ponytails to make one wig. Donations need to be 20cm or longer as length is lost when the hair is sewn into the wig cap.

The difference a wig can make to someone in need can’t be underestimated. As my lovely niece said: “Donating my hair was a small gesture really. I wanted to do more than just send a financial donation. I wanted to give a piece of myself.”

This post was kindly written by Janet Camilleri. Based in Brisbane, Janet submitted her first article to a magazine at the tender age of twelve (no, it wasn’t published). Since then however her work has appeared in dozens of print and digital publications. If you enjoyed this article, check out her blog Janetti Spaghetti!

Online Grocery Shopping: 7 ways it will help you save money

Do you prefer online grocery shopping or walking into the supermarket? I’m going to share 7 ways it will help you save money and I why I prefer it.

If only I had online grocery shopping when my children were very young. It would’ve been so much more convenient. No having to time shops in between feeds or naps. No lugging bags of groceries into the house while you’re trying to wrestle children. And then the packing away after an already hectic time.

Once online grocery shopping was introduced here in Australia, I was a convert. I tried the home delivery a couple of times but I couldn’t justify the extra cost and my supermarkets are literally around the corner. I can be there and back within 15 minutes using the click’n’collect service for no extra charge.

But will online grocery shopping save you money? Here are my 7 ways.

A running total of your order

What’s your grocery budget? Adding items to your grocery cart online you will instantly see a running total of your order and if you’re going to stick to your budget.

If you’re likely to go over, you have the opportunity to take out items you probably don’t need or it can wait until the next time you shop.

I bought bath soap today knowing I have one cake of soap left but I’m not likely to run out soap between now and my next shop. If I was going to go over budget, I could’ve easily taken this item off.

You stick to your list

Do you keep track of what you need each week? I keep a well stocked pantry and know when I need something. As soon as I run out, or am likely to run out very soon, I add the item to my magnetic whiteboard on the fridge.

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This helps with knowing what I’ll need for the week ahead for breakfasts, school lunches and evening meals. Also if I’ve run out of toiletries or other household items like laundry powder or dishwashing liquid, for example.

No impulse buys

Supermarkets are masters at putting impulse buys right before our eyes. At the end of each aisle, at eye height, at the checkouts and that markdown rack are all places supermarkets like to tempt us to buy extra.

I’m all for a good markdown but if it’s not on your list and you don’t need it, buying your groceries online will help you fall into their sticky traps.

Also, don’t fall for the online tricks either. They’ll suggest items you may have bought last time but not buying this time and the half price or online only specials are also there to tempt you.

Buy all means, check out the online specials to see if your favourites or items you’d like to try are there but only if they’re on your list.

Higher priced substitutions

I’ve never met a substitution I’ve never liked. The great thing about buying online is that the supermarket wants to keep you coming back and offers substitutions on the products you place in your order.

That is, if the item you ordered isn’t available at the time the order is filled, the order picker will pick as close as possible to your item but the same priced item or better.

I’ve received big named branded goods that I normally don’t buy (because of the price) because they can’t supply the item I ordered.

If anything, it gives you an opportunity to try a different brand to check for quality. Maybe that homebrand item you always buy isn’t so bad after all.

Costly convenience

It’s not only the dollar value of the order the cost of your time. We all know how busy we are lately, right? It’s not only the time you’re in the supermarket but the driving there, fighting for a car park, wrangling children (if you have them and avoiding the treats or bribes which all cost extra) the time to pack it all into the car and lug it into your house.

Depending if you get home delivery or click’n’collect, the cost of your time, fuel etc could be saved plus your peace of mind.

No other spending

Most supermarkets are within a bigger complex be it a shopping mall or smaller suburban shopping centre.

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There’s everything from coffee shops, bakeries, dollar stores and other stores that cater to everyone’s tastes.

When you grocery shop online you don’t have that temptation to purchase things you probably don’t need. Put that money towards a holiday, day out with the family or a special buy at the supermarket like fresh seafood or a big piece of roasting meat (which are all so expensive today).

24 hours per day

I thought I’d throw this one in as it costs me my sanity. There was a time when I religiously did the grocery shopping, in store, every Monday morning after school drop off. I guess it was my me time plus getting a good head start on the week ahead with a full pantry, fridge and freezer.

Now the children are grown up and I’ve been grocery shopping fortnightly for ages, I can shop at any time of the day.

When I went to bed last night at 11pm I had forgotten to place my online order. I quickly jumped online this morning at 6am and the order will be ready for pick up at 3pm this afternoon. It fits in well with whatever else I have going on for the day.

Conclusion

Whether you pay the extra for home delivery or use the supermarket’s click’n’collect service, online grocery shopping will definitely save you money in the long run.

It will help you get everything on your list, stick to your budget, have the convenience of someone else to pick your order saving you time and it will save your sanity being able to shop online any time of the day or week.

Do you love it as much as me?

PIN IT FOR LATER

Famous Australians who are vegan that may surprise you

You might be surprised to find these famous Australians are vegan. Read on to find out who they are.

“I was not raised vegan. I did not become vegan because I don’t like the taste of meat, dairy, or eggs. I became vegan because, one day I had the courage to take responsibility for my choices. I no longer believe that animals are here for us for food, clothing, entertainment, testing or any other purpose” – Author Unknown.

Veganism isn’t just about the food we eat. It is a lifestyle choice which impacts every area of our lives, from the clothes and makeup products we wear, through to the cleaning and other household products we use. Fortunately there is an ever-growing range of options, from vegan collagen to vegan leather!

For me, it’s always been about the animals. I love them and won’t even kill a spider!  I have a little clear plastic container I keep just to catch and release them if we find them in the house. 

I’m not the only one that is actively avoiding any form of animal cruelty; there are plenty of famous Aussies who feel the same, and identify as vegan.

Tennis player Nick Kyrgios for example, cites his love of animals as the reason why he is vegan, while actor Liam Hemsworth advocates against any form of animal abuse.

In an article with “O” magazine, Portia de Rossi explained that she wanted to contribute to making the world a less violent place through following a vegan lifestyle.

Aussie singer songwriter Missy Higgins is also an avid animal lover. She credits a primary school teacher’s lesson about being kind to animals, as the reason she chose a plant-based lifestyle.

Kindness Towards Animals

Kindness towards animals means that we often have emotional attachments to them.

Sia’s love for her pets made her want to do more to support them. She said that “knowing that cows and chickens could feel and care and empathise, just like my dogs”, was the catalyst for her decision.

She is in good company with The Veronicas, aka Lisa and Jess Origliasso. The sisters have long campaigned for animal rights and choose to eat a plant-based diet for the good of animals, their health, and the future of the planet.

Environmental Concerns

Concern about the environment often compels individuals to follow a plant-based lifestyle. 

Today Show presenter David Campbell spoke about this in an Instagram post where he declared that he feels 100% better for being vegan: “I am ethically doing the right things for animals, the planet and our children””.

However what many people are unaware of, is that becoming vegan is about a lot more than avoiding meat.

And even if you aren’t prepared to go totally vegan, you can still make a positive impact in this world by consciously choosing to be “partly vegan” – by choosing products that are created without causing animals to suffer.

From makeup brushes and artist paints, to vegan mascara and skincare, these days we are spoiled by an array of great animal and cruelty-free options.

Being a vegan doesn’t have to be all about sacrifice; there are some fantastic vegan products which have been scientifically formulated to be just as effective, while still being kind to animals.

So while you may not be 100% vegan, it’s definitely worth thinking about the different ways you could live a cleaner, greener, and kinder life!

7 Questions to Ask Yourself Before You Retire

Have you ever thought about what questions to ask yourself before you retire? Find out more here.

What comes to mind when you think of retirement?  Most people think of the state of their finances, but retirement is so much more than this.

Retirement is exchanging one way of life for another. It’s exciting and challenging at the same time.

While this new stage of life does give you time to pursue your passions, hobbies, and interests, perhaps for the first time, it’s also about managing change – and good planning can make the transition from work to retirement much easier.

How do you know when it’s time to retire?

It’s a good question and there’s no one-size-fits-all answer.  According to the Australian Bureau of Statistics, most people in Australia retire between the ages of 55 and 69.

Image Source

Financial considerations are a big part of this decision, but you may also be prompted to transition to retirement when:

• You’re excited about moving on to the next chapter in your life
• You don’t want to work anymore and can afford to do so
• Your mental and physical health demand rest
• You and your partner are on the same page

Before making the decision to retire, you will want to consider some other questions as well.

Where will you live?

Your choices may include staying in the family home, making a “tree” or “sea” change (relocating to the beach or country), moving closer to family, downsizing to a unit or townhouse, or living in a retirement village. 

Retirement villages offer a relaxed, social lifestyle with the security of aged care on site if needed, so it’s easy to understand why they’re so popular.

How will you manage finances?

The effort required to move to a retirement village or aged care facility, or apply for the age pension, can seem quite overwhelming – there is so much paperwork to be done for starters!

Getting retirement advice and assistance from an experienced professional will make it much more manageable. Bill Savellis of Olive Grove Financial Advice is an award winning financial adviser and accredited aged care professional, who can create a personalised plan and work with Centrelink and other service providers on your behalf – so you can relax and get on with the business of enjoying your retirement!

What activities will you enjoy?

Many retirees relish pursuing hobbies such as painting, gardening, golf, learning a new skill or giving back to the community. 

Others travel abroad or become grey nomads and set out to explore this wonderful country. 

Whatever your choices, be sure to include regular social activities as these are important for mental health and wellbeing!

What will be your purpose?

Your purpose is anything that gives meaning to your life. For some, it’s spending time with the grandchildren; for others, it’s helping out in schools, volunteering at a neighbourhood centre, attending community events, or joining a club. 

Setting some goals for yourself also creates a sense of purpose. Think about what you want to achieve in the first six months or year of retired life, then also think about your long term plans.

How will you keep active and involved?

Keeping active and involved is key to living well in retirement – what will that look like for you? You might consider:

• establishing regular activities during the week such as lunch dates with family or friends
• joining a walking group or finding a fitness buddy to stay active and social
• boosting your brain power by doing sudoku and crossword puzzles
• learning a new skill, or teaching skills you already have to others.

How will you manage health issues?

Hopefully you will be able to enjoy your retirement in good health. Regular checkups (GP, optometrist, bowel scan, mammograms, etc) are the best way to pick up any problems early, when they are more easily treated. However it’s prudent to have plans in place should your health decline.

These plans should include an Advanced Health Care Directive, and an Enduring Power of Attorney.

An Advanced Health Care Directive allows you to make your wishes known and gives health professionals direction about the treatment you want. You can appoint someone you trust to make decisions on your behalf.

An Enduring Power of Attorney allows someone to make decisions if you lose capacity to do so yourself. You can appoint an attorney for health matters or financial matters or both.

As you can see, there is a lot more to preparing for retirement than just doing your sums. There is a whole new stage of life waiting for you, and planning is the key to making it just what you want!