APPLY FOR DIVORCE
A STEP-BY-STEP GUIDE
Based in Burleigh Heads and serving the Gold Coast, Tweed Heads, Byron Bay and Mullumbimby, this practical guide is written by the accredited family law specialists at Hunter Family Law. It walks you through eligibility, filing online via the Commonwealth Courts Portal, how to serve a sole application, current fees, and what happens after the hearing—so you can DIY with confidence or ask us to step in where needed.
Divorce Application — Gold Coast & Northern Rivers (Step-by-Step Guide)
Divorce in Australia is a federal process. This guide explains how to apply for divorce if you live on the Gold Coast or in the Northern Rivers, including eligibility, filing online, serving documents, fees, and what happens next.
How to Apply for Divorce in Australia
You can apply for divorce through the Federal Circuit and Family Court of Australia. The process is usually completed online via the Commonwealth Courts Portal.
DIY Divorce or Divorce Lawyer Support?
Many straightforward divorces can be completed yourself. Review the Court’s guidance, then file online through the Portal. If your situation is complex—or you’d prefer us to prepare the application for you—our experienced divorce lawyers can help.
Step-by-Step Divorce Process (Online Filing)
- Create or log in to the Commonwealth Courts Portal.
- Start an Application for Divorce → choose Joint or Sole.
- Enter details exactly as they appear on your marriage certificate (add “also known as” if names differ).
- If married for less than 2 years, you’ll likely need a counselling certificate.
- Upload the required documents and pay the filing fee (a reduced fee may apply).
- Your hearing details will appear in the Portal; many matters are dealt with electronically.
- The divorce order is available in the Portal one month + one day after it’s made.
Serving Divorce Papers (Sole Applications)
If you file a sole application, you must serve the sealed documents on your spouse within the required timeframes. Use the official guide and forms:
Divorce Costs & Court Filing Fees
Court filing fees change from time to time. Check the current fee and whether you qualify for a reduced fee (in a joint application, both parties must qualify).
After Divorce: Property Settlement & Parenting Time Limits
A divorce itself does not resolve parenting or property matters. If you need property or financial orders, you generally have 12 months from the date your divorce becomes final to start a case (different rules apply to de facto couples).
For more information, see:
Divorce Lawyers — Gold Coast & Northern Rivers
You’re welcome to file the application yourself. If you’d like us to check, prepare, or serve it—and coordinate any parenting or property steps that sit alongside the divorce—contact Hunter Family Law for clear advice and fixed-fee options.
See also: Divorce, Property Settlement, Children & Parenting.