Open your own accounts
Now that your divorce or separation is underway and shared accounts are being closed, opening your own account(s) is a great place to begin.
Think about the accounts you might need. If you have kids, it could be useful to open a separate account for child support payments. An interest earning savings account or a term deposit, on the other hand, may help you to save. View our range of everyday banking accounts to see what can work for you.
Set up a new budget
Moving to a single-income is an ideal time to review how much you’re spending. Use our budget planner tool to create a workable budget that reflects your current income and household. Not only practical, it’s a great way to feel in control again.
Know your rights
Separation is never black and white - and you'll have different rights depending on whether you were married or in a de facto relationship.
Find out what you have a right to - and how to protect it - in our guide on dividing up joint assets.
Take control of debt
It’s best to stay on top of mortgage and credit card payments from the start - so balancing your cash flow is critical.
Most people are managing some form of debt at any given time. The trick is to always know what you owe, and the conditions of your repayments. For more practical help on this, see managing your debts.
Manage your property
Whether you're renting, own your own home, or own several houses, there's a good chance that managing your properties could become more complicated after separation.
While you find your feet, a good place to start is to speak with a financial expert. They can review your budget and help decide the best path for you. Remember, a property should always be seen as a promising investment, not a drain on your finances.
Plan for a financially safe future
Have you thought about your retirement yet? A financial expert can help you understand how long you should be working for, how much to save, and even the best time to sell your property.
It may also be a good idea to check up on your super. If you have multiple accounts, think about combining them into one to save on fees, and look into ways you can grow your super balance.
Learning these skills will have you well on your way to financial independence. Find more tips and advice using our online help and guidance resources.
Glossary
Repayment
The act of paying back a loan to the lender. This can be as a whole, or periodic installments.
Super
Super is a regular payment made into a super fund by an employee towards a future pension. For most people, your employer must pay an amount equal to 9.5% of your salary into your super fund account. Your super savings can be self-managed, or controlled by the superannuation fund of your choice.
Call NAB Assist on 1800 701 599. We're available Monday to Friday, 8:00am to 8:00pm (AEST/AEDT) or Saturday, 9:00am to 1:00pm (AEST/AEDT) or visit your nearest NAB Branch.
Other life moments
Dividing your shared assets in a divorce or separation
Understanding how the process of dividing up your shared assets works.
A financial checklist for divorce or separation
A step-by-step guide to help you get back on your financial feet.
Divorce and separation support networks
Here are the services that you can turn to for help.
Other resources and support
Financial wellbeing
Discover ways to ease cost of living pressures, manage finances and improve your financial wellbeing.
Financial assistance
If you’re experiencing financial difficulty, there are some ways we can help.
Customer Care Kit
A guide to trusted organisations that offer free financial counselling services and community support.
Get in touch
If you're experiencing a change in your circumstances, require financial hardship assistance, or think you might need help in the future, please contact us.
Request financial hardship assistance
If you’re having trouble making your repayments, you can request assistance.
Call NAB Assist Team
Monday to Friday, 8:00am to 8:00pm (AEST/AEDT)
Saturday, 9:00am to 1:00pm (AEST/AEDT)
Important information
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The information contained in this article is intended to be of a general nature only. It has been prepared without taking into account any person’s objectives, financial situation or needs. Before acting on this information, NAB recommends that you consider whether it is appropriate for your circumstances. NAB recommends that you seek independent legal, financial and taxation advice before acting on any information in this article.