People might ask “what is spousal maintenance?”, the answer is quite simple: it is financial assistance given by one ex-partner to the other if they are financially unstable. Spousal maintenance in Australia can also be paid by lump sum in lieu of spousal assets to be shared, such as boats or cars.
There are two types of spousal maintenance, the Family court or the Federal court deals with them.
Spouse maintenance: One person gives this financial support to his or her former husband/wife. Their previous partner gives them financial assistance.
De facto partner maintenance: If a couple is no longer in the de facto relationship, then one may give financial assistance to other partners.