However, as financial stability grows more significant in our lives, it seems that more Australian women are now taking a stronger stance on their finances before they tie the knot.

Most of my married friends have kept their finances separate or have discussed their financial situations clearly with each other. After all, when we hear the words "I do", we want to make sure he's speaking to us, and not our bank accounts!

Money is undeniably a big factor in most relationships, no matter if couples talk about it or not. Relationships Australia conducted a 2008 survey indicating that 40 percent of people consider financial insecurities or difficulties a major obstacle in their relationships, while 66 percent believed that legal status and financial security are among reasons to get hitched.

This may come as a surprise, because a lot of couples avoid talking about money and each other's finances. Many couples will overlook their partner's excessive purchases or rising debts, until it really starts to affect their day-to-day lives. But by then, arguing about finances while struggling with debt can snuff out the honeymoon sensation in any relationship.

One of the biggest concerns for couples is the financial "STD" — sexually transmitted debt. The typical nightmare scenarios experienced by many couples is one partner has depleted a joint account in the event of a break-up, while others have defaulted on home and personal loans taken out for them in their partner's name or a joint account.

In the case of savings accounts, you need to consider talking about whether both signatures should be required before large withdrawals are made from the account. With joint home loans, you will need to carefully set out who is responsible for paying the loan and the consequences in the event of default or relationship breakdown.

So even if your spending and saving habits are different, it's easy to make mutual savings goals with your loved one. Just make sure you take one step at a time.

For example, by setting up a joint savings account at one of today's highest rates of 6 percent by both AMP and ING Direct, and contributing $100 a week each, a newlywed couple could save about $55,800 in five years' time (if the rate remains the same). That's plenty of cash for a first home deposit!

Just like talking about your feelings towards one another, fostering a healthy financial relationship takes a lot of trust, compromise and patience. The secret is in taking measures towards financial security together, while keeping the balance so both of you feel your contributions are significant and appreciated.

For richer or poorer, we're meant to spend the rest of our lives with the person we love. But if we've got the cleverness and guts to tackle our finances, it may as well be for richer.

Your say: Have you ever found yourself with "STD" — sexually transmitted debt? How do you handle the subject of money with your partner? At what point in your relationship do you broach the subject of finances? Share with us below.

Michelle Hutchison is Consumer Advocate at RateCity.

The above information is general only and does not take into account your objectives, financial situation or needs.

Related video