Willans and Enmore (No 2)

The Family Court of Australia heard an application by Ms Willans (the applicant) for an adjustment of property interests following the cessation of a de facto relationship with Mr Enmore (the respondent) in November 2016. The relationship had commenced either in October 2004 or April 2005, and involved substantial property interests, including shares in a company named J Pty Ltd, real property, cash, and a self-managed superannuation fund. The applicant sought a 55% to 45% division of property in her favour, while the respondent proposed a 54% to 46% division in his favour.

The court was required to determine the just and equitable division of the parties' property interests. This involved assessing the contributions of each party to the relationship and to the acquisition, conservation, and improvement of the property, as well as considering future needs and other relevant circumstances under sections 90SF(3) and 90SM of the *Family Law Act 1975* (Cth). The court also considered the evidence presented, including the applicant's qualifications as a finance professional and her role in the respondent's company, J Pty Ltd, and the respondent's background as a tradesperson or trade engineer.

Justice Wilson found that a just and equitable division of the parties' property interests was a 50% split to each party. This decision was reached after considering the evidence, including the applicant's financial contributions and her role in the respondent's company, and the respondent's contributions. The court directed the parties to submit a minute of proposed orders to give effect to this 50/50 division.