Divorce Application Queensland

You can apply for a divorce in QLD, but you’ll need to provide a copy of your marriage certificate. If you were married overseas and the certificate is not in English, you must have it translated, and attach an affidavit from the translator.

When you begin your online divorce in QLD with Simple Separation, we’ll provide you with a clear checklist of required documents and prompt you for anything that’s missing.

The court filing fee for a divorce application in Australia is currently $1,100 (as of July 2024). A reduced fee of $365 may apply if either party holds a concession card (these are subject to change as of July 2025).

We charge a flat-rate fee for your online divorce. This includes:

• Drafting all legal documents

• Legal review of paperwork

• Support with court filing

Legal representation at the court hearing, if required*

*All legal services are provided at a fixed fee through our select panel of third-party law firms.

No hourly rates, no hidden costs — just one transparent upfront price.

You must have been separated for at least 12 months and 1 day before applying for divorce in Queensland. This requirement applies under all Australian family law.

You can still be considered separated even if you live under the same roof, but you’ll need to provide additional evidence. Here’s how to demonstrate separation under the same roof.

In most amicable divorce cases in Queensland, you won’t need to attend court. If you file a joint application and there are no disputes, your family lawyer can attend on your behalf.

You may be required to attend if:

• You are the sole applicant and have children under 18

• Your spouse disputes the divorce

• You are requesting substituted service or special orders

Most court hearings are now virtual, making the process even more accessible.

Yes, but only in limited circumstances, such as:

• You and your spouse have not been separated for 12 months

• The court lacks jurisdiction (e.g., neither party lives in Australia or is an Australian citizen)

If either of these applies, we strongly recommend speaking to a lawyer before your court date.

A friendly or amicable divorce occurs when both parties agree to the divorce and complete the paperwork together, usually through a joint application.

This is the fastest and easiest route. At Simple Separation, the process is fully online, handled by family law professionals, and includes court representation, so you don’t have to manage it alone.

If you've been married under two years, the law requires you to attend marriage counselling and obtain a counselling certificate before filing.

You may be exempt if there are serious issues, such as domestic violence or if your spouse cannot be located. We’ll help you determine the best path forward in these situations.

Once your application is submitted and accepted, a hearing is typically scheduled within a few weeks. Your divorce becomes final one month and one day after the hearing date.

In most cases with Simple Separation, a friendly divorce in Queensland takes 2–3 months from start to finish, provided all required documents are submitted promptly.