Apply For Divorce In Australia

Once you have been separated for 12 months and 1 day, and there is no reasonable likelihood that you will get back together with your spouse, you are eligible to apply for divorce.

You have two options when applying for divorce, either solely or jointly.

Sole application

If you make a sole application, you are known as the applicant and the other party is known as the respondent. With a sole application, there is a requirement that the application is served upon the other party (respondent), and that appropriate proof is provided to confirm that the application has been served.

Joint application

For a joint application, both parties are known as joint applicants. By applying jointly, removes the need to serve the other party with the divorce application, as both parties we be able to sign the application prior to it being filed.

The application itself is fairly straightforward, providing that you have all the documents required to accompany the application. When the application has been filed, the matter is allocated a hearing date.

Attendance at court

Court attendance is only required if you have filed a sole application and there is a child of the marriage aged under 18 years at the time of filing or you have indicated that you wish to attend in the application.

Related Article: How Long Does It Take To Get Divorced In Australia?

Fees

There is a filing fee for Application for Divorce, which is currently $900. In some cases a reduced fee may be sought for a divorce application if you hold certain government concession cards or can demonstrate financial hardship.

Divorce granted

Once the divorce is granted it will be finalised one month and one day later unless a special order is made by the court to shorten that time. Following the Court granting a final divorce order (decree absolute), there is a 12 month timeline associated with the commencement of property and/or spouse maintenance proceedings.

Related Article: Are You Running Out Of Time? Understanding Time Limits In Family Court Matters

Seeking legal advice

It’s advised that you obtain legal advice to understand your rights and responsibilities before apply for a divorce or other application in relation to a divorce. A lawyer can help explain how the law applies to your specific case.

Remember, divorce proceedings do not finalise any arrangements regarding parenting and property. These types of orders need to be filed on a separate application.

Note: This is general information advice only and does not constitute specific legal advice. If you would like further information in relation to this matter or other legal matters, please contact us on 03 9620 0088 or email info@resolveconflict.com.au