💲How much does it cost to get a divorce in Australia?
The fee for applying for a divorce in 2024 is $1060.00.
The price is the same whether you are filing a sole application or making the application with your spouse, but if you file jointly then you and your spouse could agree to each pay half of the fee.
You may be entitled to a fee reduction based on low income. The reduced fee in 2024 is $350. For a sole application, you need to document your low income to the Court, but for a joint application both parties need to demonstrate low income.
The easiest way to establish financial hardship is to provide a copy of a Concession Card. If you do not have a concession card, you may still qualify for a reduced fee if your income is below certain thresholds.
🕤 How long does it take to get a divorce in Australia?
In order to apply for divorce, partners must be separated for a period of at least 12 months and 1 day. If there is a period of reconciliation for three months or more, the clock on the 12-month separation restarts.
If the court grants the divorce at your hearing date, it will be finalised one month and one day later, unless the Court makes an order to shorten the time because of extraordinary circumstances. You can access the divorce order through the Commonwealth Courts Portal the day after your decree is issued.
So, the time it takes to get divorced includes the separation period of 12 months, the time it takes for you to submit your application, the time it takes for the application to get processed (typically 3-4 months after submitted), and then the one month and one day for the finalisation of the divorce application
❔ How can I get a quick divorce in Australia?
In Australia, there is no such thing as a fast divorce. Being granted a divorce order usually takes a few months after you’ve submitted the application but depending on your situation, it could take longer or less time.
👨⚖️ Do I have to attend the divorce hearing?
The good news is that if you file a joint Application for Divorce neither you nor your spouse is required to attend Court.
When you file a sole Application, you are required to attend Court if you are relying on substituted service or dispensation of service, or if you have children under 18 (this includes a step-child or foster-child who was considered a part of the family). In addition, if your spouse opposes the divorce being heard in the absence of the parties you will be required to attend.
Divorce hearings are conducted electronically. If you are required to attend but you cannot attend on the date set down by the Court, you can write to the Registrar to seek an adjournment of the hearing.