The Federal Circuit and Family Court of Australia (FCFCOA) has announced changes to four family law forms and introduced a new National Enforcement List (NEL) for financial and property proceedings. If you have a family law matter involving enforcement, whether that’s an unpaid property settlement or a court order that isn’t being complied with, here’s what’s changing and what it means for you.
Updated Family Law Forms
Four existing forms have been amended, alongside a new template for enforcing possession orders.
- Application in a Proceeding
Now reflects the Central Practice Direction requirement that a party can only file one additional Application in a Proceeding without leave, unless it’s urgent or high-risk, or the application is made by an Independent Children’s Lawyer. - Application in an Appeal
Instructions now clarify that an aff idavit isn’t required when the application is made under rule 13.40 to review an order of an Appeal Judicial Registrar. - Application – Enforcement
Now asks whether a family violence order is in place, and requires it to be filed if so. - Notice of Request to Inspect
Now captures more detail to help process requests to inspect subpoena material, including who is making the request and whether permission to inspect or copy has already been granted. - New Warrant for Possession Template
A new template has been developed, for use where a judicial officer directs it.
A grace period applies for the old versions of these forms. They can still be used until close of filing on Friday, 16 October 2026.
The National Enforcement List
As previously flagged by the Court, the National Enforcement List commences on 21 September 2026 for family law financial and property proceedings. A dedicated Family Law Practice Direction has now been published to set out how enforcement matters will be case managed.
For anyone trying to enforce a property settlement or financial order, chasing an ex who hasn’t paid what they owe, or arranging a warrant for possession, this changes how those applications are lodged. From 21 September 2026, any Application – Enforcement or enforcement request must be lodged by email to enforcementlist@fcfcoa.gov.au, along with the required supporting documents.
Two prescribed brochures have also been updated to reflect the changes: Enforcement hearings, and Third party debt notices.
What This Means for You
If you have an existing family law financial or property order that isn’t being honoured, these changes affect how you’ll need to bring an enforcement application from 21 September. And if you’re currently preparing an Application in a Proceeding, an appeal, or a request to inspect subpoena material, it’s worth checking you’re using the updated form before the 16 October grace period ends.
Enforcement proceedings, whether that’s recovering money owed under a property settlement or addressing non-compliance with parenting orders, can be procedurally complex, and getting the lodgment process wrong can cost you time. If you’re unsure how these changes affect your matter, our family law team can help you understand your options and make sure your application is filed correctly under the new process.