As we settle into the rhythms of 2025, it’s become apparent that not all New Year’s resolutions are about self-improvement or saving money. For many Australians, the resolution has been to end marriages that are no longer working. Recent data indicates a significant spike in divorce rates, and while this may come as a surprise to some, the reasons behind this trend are worth a closer look.
In the past two months alone, The Separation Guide, an Australian divorce technology platform, has reported a staggering 40 per cent increase in separation enquiries compared to the same period last year. The post-holiday period, particularly December 29, saw an 88 per cent surge in onboarding enquiries, and January followed suit with a 39 per cent rise. These figures are more than just statistics; they represent real people facing the tough decision to part ways with their partners.
The holiday season, often romanticised as a time of joy and family unity, can also be a period of intense pressure and stress. Financial strains, family tensions, and the emotional weight of the season can push relationships that were already on shaky ground to their breaking point. Angela Harbinson, CEO of The Separation Guide, explains that for many couples, the decision to separate comes after a final holiday season spent together, leading to an uptick in divorce-related searches and enquiries as the New Year begins.
Returning to work in January, when offices are still quiet, provides individuals with the privacy they need to research their options without their partners’ knowledge. This trend is shifting the traditional peak in divorce enquiries from February, known in the Family Law sector as ‘divorce month’, to earlier in the year.
But what’s driving this increase in divorce rates? It’s not just the holiday blues. Australia, like many other countries, is grappling with a cost of living crisis that has put immense financial pressure on families. Money problems are often cited as a leading cause of marital strife, and with the average cost of separation and divorce in Australia hovering around $21,000 per person out of court—and skyrocketing to between $50,000 and $100,000 if the matter goes to court—the stakes are high.
The financial burden of divorce is not to be taken lightly. The Separation Guide’s research highlights the economic impact of ending a marriage, which can be a deterrent for some but a necessary step for others seeking peace and a fresh start. It’s a sobering reality that in 2021, Australia saw the highest number of divorces granted since 1976, with 56,244 divorces. Although there has been a slight decrease in the years following, with 49,241 divorces in 2022 and 48,700 in 2023, the numbers remain significant.
Divorce is a deeply personal journey, particularly later in life, and each situation presents its own unique challenges. If you or someone you know has gone through a divorce recently, we’d love to hear from you. What insights or advice would you offer to others facing this significant decision? Sharing your experiences could provide much-needed guidance and comfort to those navigating similar circumstances. Feel free to leave a comment below!
Also read: The rise of ‘grey divorces’
