Toni Collette was separated from husband Dave Galafassi for a 'substantial ... trends now

Toni Collette had been separated from her husband Dave Galafassi for some time before she announced their divorce this week.

The actress confirmed their split on Thursday morning after pictures emerged of the drummer passionately kissing 41-year-old chiropractor Shannon Egan on Manly Beach on Wednesday morning. 

'It is with grace and gratitude that we announce we are divorcing. We're united in our decision and part with continuing respect and care for each other,' a joint statement from the couple read. 

'Our kids are of paramount importance to us and we will continue to thrive as a family, albeit a different shape. We're thankful for the space and love you grant us as we evolve and move through this transition peace. 

The post has since been edited to clarify their decision to divorce came 'after a substantial period of separation.' 

It comes after Galafassi broke his silence after he was pictured kissing and cuddling his new girlfriend on Wednesday morning. 

Galafassi on Thursday hid out at the now estranged couple's modest $3million three bedroom home in Sydney's inner west.

'I don't want to talk about it,' Galafassi told Daily Mail Australia, via the intercom at his Birchgrove home.

Galafassi was earlier in the company of two young men who appeared to take pictures of the exterior of the property as they left about 2.30pm.

Meanwhile his new lover Egan was seen taking her dog for a walk near her home in Manly on Wednesday, just hours after their steamy beach date.

Egan is an 'integrative chiropractor' with more than 15 years of clinical experience who has had her own serious health problems, according to an online profile. 

'Having a passion for healthy living, Shannon has extended her skills specifically in the areas of women's health, mind-body connection and children's health,' the profile states.

'Shannon has a special interest in empowering women to live a calm, connected and inspired life. Shannon also loves treating kids and enjoys seeing them reach their full potential; confident in their own body and be full of vitality.' 

Ms Egan graduated from Macquarie University in 2004 with two degrees - a Bachelor of Chiropractic Science and a Masters of Chiropractic. 

'Through her own health challenges in recovering from a chronic illness, Shannon understands the complexities of health and the need for an integrative approach, both medically and holistically,' her profile states. 

'The years during and after her illness and recovery gave her a deep understanding of what it means to face a life-threatening disease. 

'Consequently, she became fascinated by the emotional experience of illness. It fuelled a lifelong exploration into spiritual growth, meditation and the mind-body connection.' 

On Wednesday morning Galafassi was seen hugging and kissing Ms Egan in the water and on the sand in front of other beachgoers.