Future proofing your independence

A separation is a good time to review and update personal documents and accounts so they support your next step.

Change and uncertainty can be one of the scariest parts of ending your marriage or de facto relationship.

If you are not able to establish financial independence immediately after a separation, here are some steps that could help:

  1. Talk to Centrelink about your plans and discuss the possibility of financial support.
  2. Do some short courses and update or refresh your skills.
  3. Talk with your personal networks about your desire to get back into the workforce. Your friends and contacts may know of suitable roles and even be able to recommend you.
  4. Practice your interview skills.
  5. Update your résumé (there are lots of free templates online), look at job ads and list with recruitment agencies.
  6. Arrange your financial settlements and seek formal Court Orders.
  7. Educate yourself on money management topics such as, budgeting, superannuation, borrowing, investing and more at Westpac's Davidson Institute where you can find live webinars, on-demand videos, or downloadable tools and guides to help build your financial confidence.

 

Pro-actively securing your own income and setting a plan with clear financial milestones are the first steps to establishing your financial autonomy after a separation.