Mowatt and Mowatt

In *Mowatt and Mowatt*, Johnston J of the Supreme Court of Western Australia considered a dispute concerning the division of property between a divorcing couple. The primary issue before the Court was how to fairly distribute the matrimonial assets, which included a significant property portfolio, in light of the parties' respective contributions and future needs.

The Court was required to determine the appropriate weight to be given to the non-financial contributions of each party to the marriage, particularly in relation to the acquisition and maintenance of the family home and other assets. Furthermore, the Court had to assess the future economic circumstances of each party and consider whether any adjustment was warranted to ensure a just and equitable outcome.

Johnston J applied the principles of the *Family Law Act 1975* (Cth), focusing on the need to consider all relevant circumstances of the case, including the contributions of each party to the acquisition, conservation, and improvement of any of the property of the marriage, and to the welfare of the family constituted by the marriage. The Court emphasised that contributions, both financial and non-financial, are to be given due consideration. The Judge ultimately made orders for the division of the property, reflecting a balance between past contributions and future needs.