Authors: Qu, Lixia
Overview
Many changes have occurred in Australia since the establishment of the Australian Institute of Family Studies in 1980. This snapshot presents some changes in relation to couple relationships.
Key trends The divorce rate was at a high plateau in the 1980s and 1990s but a downward trend has emerged since. There is a general acceptance for an unhappy marriage to end, even if there are children involved. The rate of marriage has declined in Australia, and couples have been marrying later. Nevertheless, most adults today are married or will marry during the course of their lives.
Combined trends in relationship formation and stability have led to a decline in the overall partnership rates.
The divorce rate was at a high plateau in the 1980s and 1990s but a downward trend has emerged since. There is a general acceptance for an unhappy marriage to end, even if there are children involved.
Social attitudes towards marriage, cohabitation and same-sex relationships have changed, with acceptance of diversity growing in Australia.
Cohabiting relationships have become increasingly common, especially among young people. Cohabitation without the intention of marrying has become increasingly accepted.
This was a short summary of the original article
which can be downloaded in full as a PDF below
