The concept of common law marriage is actually quite recent. While legally erroneous, a widespread belief in this myth has served a social purpose.
Same-sex marriage has been legal for a year in Australia, but more progress can still be made on gender inequality in marriages and cohabiting relationships.
Jono Searle/AAP
Marriage equality was a major step forward for Australia. But women in both marriages and cohabiting relationships continue to deal with inequality and gender-prescribed roles.