The question of Australia’s divorce rate is often raised when discussing relationships, marriage and family stability, and the general consensus is that it has been around 32% over recent decades. Australia’s 2024 divorce stats, recently released, reflect ongoing trends shaped by social, economic and cultural changes.
The most recent ABS release, Marriages and Divorces, Australia – 2024 (23 July 2025), provides clear statistics on marriage rates, divorces granted, and shifts in relationship patterns across the country. However, defining a divorce rate from these figures is not an exact science because the data gathered is for marriages and divorces that took place in the census year and does not take into account separations without a divorce or defacto relationships that end where there is no divorce.
Key divorce statistics in Australia for 2024
In 2024, 48,100 divorces were granted in Australia. Based on the estimated resident population, this equates to 2.1 divorces per 1,000 people aged 16 years and over. This figure continues the downward trajectory seen over the past few decades despite public perception that divorce numbers are increasing.
Marriage rates have also shifted, with fewer marriages recorded compared to previous years. The ABS reported 105,200 marriages in 2024, around 5.5 marriages per 1000 people 16 and older, reflecting social changes, the impact of the pandemic on relationship timelines and financial decisions, and a growing tendency for couples to live together without choosing to marry.
Median age and relationship durations
The median age at divorce in 2024 was 46.1 years for males and 43.1 years for females. The median duration of marriage before separation remained at 8.4 years, while the median duration from marriage to divorce was 12.3 years. These statistics reflect that many relationships last beyond a decade before ending and suggest that some couples attempt reconciliation or remain separated for years before finalising legal proceedings.
Gender and relationship trends
ABS data now also records divorces for same-sex couples, which became available in national statistics following changes to marriage laws in 2017. In 2024, 2.9 per cent of all divorces granted were for same-sex marriages. The dataset recently includes records for people identifying as non-binary gender, acknowledging diversity in relationship statistics.
Relationship patterns also show that couples are generally marrying later, with women and men delaying marriage until they are financially secure or have already started living together. This delay is thought to contribute to relationships lasting longer in many cases.
The impact of separation and divorce
Separation has a direct impact on families, households and finances. When a marriage ends, two households are often established, increasing the cost of living for both partners. Those who are parents when they divorce must navigate arrangements for children, which can be particularly challenging in cases of high conflict.
Separation affects families in multiple ways:
- Emotional and psychological: Adults may experience stress, anxiety, depression or loneliness, while children can face confusion, sadness or behavioural challenges.
- Financial: Household income often drops as one home becomes two, with legal costs, child support and property settlements adding pressure. Women may be particularly affected by long-term economic disadvantages if they have been out of the workforce or on a lower income than their partners.
- Child development: Children’s emotional and academic wellbeing can be affected, especially when parental conflict is high. Consistent routines and supportive parenting help reduce adverse outcomes.
- Social and relationship: Friendships and extended family dynamics can change, and adults may find forming new relationships challenging. Children may need to adjust to stepfamilies or blended households.
- Legal and procedural: Separation involves parenting orders, property settlements and child support arrangements, all of which can be challenging to address. Family dispute resolution and counselling services can help reduce conflict and stress.
Prioritising your and your children’s well-being and maintaining respectful, clear communication when possible is critical to minimising long-term impacts on the whole family.
Legal framework under the Family Law Act
Divorces in Australia are granted under the Family Law Act 1975. This legislation establishes a no-fault divorce system, meaning the court does not consider why the marriage ended. The only grounds for divorce are that the marriage has broken down irretrievably and that 12 months of separation have occurred.
The Act also sets out how property settlements, parenting arrangements and other issues are addressed following separation. For couples unable to resolve disputes, the court will consider the best interests of children and a fair division of financial assets.
You do not need to be divorced or wait 12 months to deal with parenting arrangements or a property settlement. This can be done immediately.
Social and cultural factors
Over the past decades, divorce numbers have been influenced by shifts in society, gender roles, and economic conditions. In earlier generations, religion and social norms made divorce less common. Today, personal happiness, financial independence and changes in politics and law mean more people are willing to end unhealthy relationships. While the crude divorce rate has declined, more couples are choosing not to marry, with de facto relationships now common and the separation rate of defacto relationships unable to be measured as part of the statistics given no divorce is possible.
De facto relationships
De facto relationships, where two people live together as a couple without being legally married, are increasingly common in Australia. When these relationships end, the separation process differs from divorce but can still involve property settlements, financial agreements, and parenting arrangements. De facto partners have similar rights and responsibilities under the Family Law Act, and many require legal guidance to resolve disputes.
Same-sex couples
Since marriage equality was introduced in 2017, same-sex couples have been able to marry and divorce under the same provisions as heterosexual couples. Separation and divorce for same-sex partners follow the same legal processes, ensuring equal access to property, parenting, and financial settlements.
Separation under one roof
Couples may sometimes remain living together during their separation, for financial or parenting reasons. This is known as “separation under one roof.” In such cases, additional evidence is required to apply for a divorce such as statements about changed sleeping arrangements, finances, or social activities to show the court that the relationship has ended in practice, even if both partners still share a home. However, a property settlement and parenting arrangements can be dealt with immediately.
Gender options and inclusivity
Australian family law recognises diverse gender identities. Divorce, separation, and parenting processes are inclusive of transgender, non-binary, and gender-diverse people. This ensures that legal documents and court proceedings respect individuals’ gender identity, and that all parties are given equal protection under the law.
The ABS statistics also show that while the crude divorce rate has declined, the proportion of couples choosing not to marry has increased. De facto relationships are common, and separation for these couples is not measured in the divorce rate statistics.
Divorce and the pandemic
The pandemic had both immediate and delayed effects on marriage and divorce patterns. Some couples experienced relationship strain during extended lockdowns, while others delayed divorce due to financial uncertainty or court disruptions. This created fluctuations in divorce numbers across 2020–2023, with a return to more consistent figures in 2024.
Interpreting the data
While Australia’s divorce rate may seem high to some, the downward trajectory suggests that relationships may be lasting longer than in the past. Many couples now choose to marry later, after establishing careers or buying property together, which can improve relationship stability.
It is important to note that statistics only reflect legal divorces. Many couples separate without ever marrying, or remain married long after their marriage is over, whether living together or apart. This means many relationship breakdowns are not included in divorce numbers. Similarly, some separated couples remain legally married for years, often due to financial or personal reasons.
Marriage and divorce rates in perspective
The latest ABS statistics provide a clear picture of marriage and divorce trends in Australia. While the number of divorces granted in 2024 was 48,100, the crude divorce rate of 2.1 per 1,000 people reflects a gradual decline compared to past decades. Factors such as fewer marriages, later marriage ages, changing gender roles and the legal framework of the Family Law Act all influence these patterns.
If you are facing divorce or separation, the team at Pearsons Family Law will ensure you know where you stand, and how to move forward. Get in touch today for a free appointment about how we can assist, on 1300 699 688 or via our contact form.
Further reading:
Australian Bureau of Statistics. (2025). Marriages and Divorces, Australia – 2024. Retrieved from https://www.abs.gov.au/statistics/people/people-and-communities/marriages-and-divorces-australia/latest-release
