FIGGINS & ANG

In the matter of *Figgins & Ang*, Williams J of the Federal Circuit Court of Australia considered applications concerning adult child maintenance and the disposition of assets. The dispute involved a husband and wife, with the court making orders regarding the husband's financial obligations towards their adult son, Mr X, and the management and sale of certain assets.

The primary legal issues before the court were the extent of the husband's liability for adult child maintenance and the appropriate orders to ensure the equitable division and protection of assets. Specifically, the court had to determine the quantum of monthly maintenance payable for Mr X and to implement measures to safeguard the wife's and Mr X's interests in the husband's assets, including shares and real property.

Williams J ordered the husband to pay $1,200 per month as adult child maintenance for Mr X, commencing from 1 April 2020. Furthermore, the court imposed stringent notification requirements on the husband regarding the disposal or encumbrance of assets exceeding $25,000, as well as any dealings with trusts or corporate entities. The husband was also directed to sell his shares beneficially held for the wife and Mr X in City B within seven days, with the net proceeds to be paid to the wife's solicitors. Contemporaneously with this sale, the husband was to provide documentation of all associated costs and commissions. All other interim applications were dismissed.