Divorce - Hiked Court Fees

The Government has significantly increased the court fees for divorce as part of the Federal Budget.

Effective as of 1 July 2015, the court fees have been increased from $845 to $1,195. A reduction of the fees may be obtained through a concession or a healthcare card.

Those contemplating of make a family law application for divorce should consider filing their application prior 1st of July 2015 to avoid the new charges.

To make an application for divorce, the family law requirements must be satisfied. One criteria is that the parties are separated for at least 12 months.

It is important to attend to your divorce when separated 12 months or more, to ensure your assets such as property, superannuation, life insurance and any other possession does not automatically go to your former spouse, but rather received by someone you choose to direct it to. A divorce order provides certainty.

You will also need to attend to your property settlement and review your Will, otherwise your former spouse will still have entitlements to your assets and will have the right to make a claim.

If you have been separated for at least 12 months and want to finalise your separation from your spouse, contact us to assist in the preparation of the divorce application and file prior 1 July 2015, before the new fees are effected.

We can also assist with your property settlement and your Will drafting or update.

The new family law court fees: http://www.familycourt.gov.au/wps/wcm/connect/fcoaweb/home/whats-new/fee-restructure-0715