While the divorce process in Australia is relatively straightforward, the associated costs are often a source of confusion. Are you concerned about how much divorce might cost? Wondering whether it’s worth engaging a family lawyer?
If you’re preparing to start the divorce process, this guide will help you understand the 2025 divorce application costs in Australia and plan your budget accordingly.
What Are the Basic Costs of Filing for Divorce in Australia?
As of 2025, the standard divorce application fee payable to the Federal Circuit and Family Court of Australia (FCFCOA) is $1,100 AUD.
You may be eligible for a reduced fee of $365 AUD if you meet certain criteria, such as:
- Holding a government concession card (e.g. Health Care Card, Pensioner Concession Card or Seniors Card);
- Receiving legal aid support;
- Receiving Centrelink benefits such as Austudy or Youth Allowance; or
- Being under 18 years of age or in custody.
Note: For joint divorce applications, both parties must meet the eligibility criteria to qualify for the reduced fee. Otherwise, the full standard fee applies.
If you are filing a sole application, you are responsible for serving the divorce papers to the other party.
This must be done via:
- A third-party process server (typically from $100 upwards); or
- Registered post, incurring postal costs.
Important: You cannot personally serve the documents on your former partner. Service must be arranged through a third party.
If you are the respondent, you usually don’t need to pay a fee. However, if you intend to oppose the divorce or file a response seeking amendments, you may incur a response fee of approximately $410AUD.
Do You Need a Family Lawyer?
While you can technically apply for divorce on your own, engaging a qualified family lawyer is highly recommended in the following situations:
- Property settlement or parenting arrangements are involved;
- You expect the other party to contest the application;
- You need legal strategy and support for negotiations; or
- You want to avoid errors, delays or the risk of rejection.
Brightstone Legal’s Family Law Team offers fixed-fee services, giving you clarity and peace of mind in budgeting for your legal journey.
2025 Divorce Cost Summary Table
| Cost Type | Amount (AUD) | Notes |
| Divorce Application | $1,100 | Reduced to $365 if eligible |
| Response/Opposition | $410 | If respondent contests or applies to amend |
| Service of Documents | From $100 | Applicable for sole applications only |
| Legal Representation | Varies | Fixed-fee options available at Brightstone |
Need Help Navigating Your Divorce?
You don’t have to face divorce alone. The experienced family law team at Brightstone Legal is committed to providing clear, practical, and forward-thinking legal strategies to help you navigate every step of your divorce process with confidence and peace of mind.
Whether you are pursuing a sole application, seeking property settlement, negotiating parenting arrangements, or aiming to minimise the emotional stress and legal risks associated with divorce, our dedicated family lawyers are here to offer comprehensive, tailored support.
- Fixed-fee services to give you certainty over costs, with no hidden charges;
- One-on-one guidance from experienced family lawyers to assist with document preparation, risk assessment, and minimising the chances of application rejection;
- Efficient handling of complex divorce matters, including international divorce, domestic violence, and sensitive family disputes, ensuring your legal rights are fully protected;
Let Brightstone’s compassionate and professional family lawyers guide you through this critical transition. We are here to safeguard your interests, provide clarity at every step, and support you with care and diligence throughout your journey.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Yes. If you meet the court’s financial hardship criteria, you can apply for a fee reduction or waiver.
Not necessarily. Many law firms — including Brightstone Legal — offer transparent and affordable pricing, including fixed-fee packages, so you know exactly what to expect.
Yes. The divorce process in Australia is relatively straightforward, and you may lodge your application online without legal representation. However, if your situation involves complex issues such as property settlement, parenting arrangements, or family violence, or if you anticipate opposition from your spouse, it is highly advisable to seek assistance from an experienced family lawyer to minimise risks of rejection, delays, or forfeiting your legal entitlements due to procedural errors.
Australian law prohibits you from personally serving divorce application documents to your spouse. Service must be carried out by an independent third party or via registered post. If service is likely to be difficult or the other party is avoiding service, it is recommended to engage a lawyer to manage the process and prevent procedural defects that could delay the divorce.
If your spouse lodges a response or application to oppose or amend the divorce, the court will charge an additional fee of approximately AUD $410. In more complex cases, further legal costs may arise. Brightstone Legal can assist by providing a cost estimate and strategic advice to help you manage these situations and avoid unnecessary litigation expenses.
Generally, the divorce application fee is non-refundable, except in rare circumstances where a procedural error by the court has occurred. Therefore, it is critical to ensure that all documents are accurate and complete before submission. Engaging an experienced family lawyer can significantly reduce the risk of rejection.
On the contrary, a qualified family lawyer will help you navigate the process efficiently, ensure your documents are correctly prepared, and prevent delays or rejection due to procedural errors. Additionally, your lawyer can act as an intermediary in negotiations with your spouse, reducing emotional conflict and making the divorce process smoother and less adversarial.
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