Jules Neale is establishing a new life in Perth, Western Australia, approximately eight months after her marriage to Brisbane Lions player Lachie Neale concluded amidst claims of infidelity. The 36-year-old hairdresser and content creator has purchased a heritage home in Perth, where she is preparing to build a new chapter with her children, Piper and Freddie.
Neale described the process of starting over in a new city as daunting, but expressed optimism about the future. "I'm embracing it," she told News Corp. "Starting over can be scary, but it can also be incredibly freeing. I'm trying to look forward instead of backwards and see this as an opportunity to build a life that feels really aligned with who I am now." She added that while the period has been difficult, she has discovered her own resilience. "It's definitely been a journey. There have been some really hard days, but there have also been so many moments where I've realised just how resilient I am."
She is currently in a more peaceful state than she was eight months prior and is excited about this new chapter. Neale and her children had been living with her parents after returning to Perth, having spent over seven years in Queensland during Lachie Neale's career with the Lions. She announced her home purchase in July via Instagram, sharing her anticipation for creating memories in the new space.
Renovations are underway at the property, with Neale and Piper assisting with exterior painting before the family's relocation later this year. Neale views this as a significant milestone, creating a home that is entirely their own and a space for her children to make memories.
During the marriage breakdown, Neale stated her children provided her with purpose and remained her primary motivation. "They've given me purpose on the hardest days and reminded me what's important," she said. She also highlighted the importance of her support system, including her parents, friends, and community, for carrying her through the challenging time. Focusing on her work, content creation, and building a stable life for her children has provided a positive outlet for her energy.
Neale has returned to hairdressing, expanded her online content work, and plans to launch a hair product line under her brand, Vela. "I'm also hoping to launch Vela in the next few months after working really hard behind the scenes on some exciting new hair products that I can't wait to share," she stated.
The end of her marriage followed allegations that Lachie Neale had an affair with a former friend. Jules Neale addressed the speculation in December, stating, "I want to make it very clear that I am not 'working through' anything. I have been betrayed in the most unimaginable way, and all I can do now is to heal and do what's best for my children."
Lachie Neale stepped down as Lions co-captain in January and issued an apology for hurting his family without confirming the specific allegations. "While I won't go into specifics I can say that I have let my family down, and I apologise for my actions which have hurt those closest to me," he said. The former couple sold their Brisbane home in February for $3.2 million.
Lachie Neale continues to reside in Brisbane but travels to Perth to see his children, an arrangement facilitated by both Jules Neale and the Lions. "I get Piper over here a fair bit … I am very fortunate that Jules has been very flexible with that, and I am able to go back to Perth with the club's blessing whenever I want," he commented in April.
The two-time Brownlow medallist is out of contract at the end of the season, with rival clubs reportedly showing interest. His family circumstances are expected to influence his decision regarding his future playing location, as Jules and their children establish their new life in Perth.
Jules Neale expressed gratitude for the support received from friends, followers, and strangers, which she said has been instrumental in her healing process. "The messages, encouragement and genuine care have meant more than I can put into words," she said. "It reminds me every day that there is so much goodness in people, and I'll always be grateful for that support."