When things turn sour, the source of information about rights and responsibilities can contribute to the pain of separation. We naturally turn to our friends and family for support and advice when things go wrong. The problem with that is the advice can be based on outdated concepts or outright misinformation. While lawyers might be needed in the long run, one starting point is the famlyrelationships website which clearly sets out the process and steps involved in separation. It points out that where there is an amicable separation, parties can consider a free DIY kit from the familylawcourts.gov.au website.
Also, love your kids more than you hate your ex and stay off Facebook because things posted online, in the emotion of the moment, can be dragged up and used against you if things turn nasty.