You must be separated for at least 12 months before you can apply, and once you apply the order is usually finalised within a few months. We’ll guide you through it.
Australian law requires 12 months and one day of separation before you can apply for a divorce. After you file and serve the application correctly, the order is typically made within a few months and takes effect a month and a day later.
You can even be "separated under one roof" in some cases, though that usually needs supporting evidence — something we can help you prepare.
The divorce only ends the marriage. Property division and parenting arrangements are handled separately and can take longer, so it’s often worth starting those conversations early.
We prepare and lodge the application correctly the first time, so it isn’t delayed by paperwork errors — and we advise on property and parenting alongside it.
Yes — at least 12 months and one day before you can apply. You can sometimes be separated under one roof, with evidence.
Often not — many divorces, especially where there are no children under 18, are granted without you needing to attend.
General information only — for advice about your situation, see more guides or book a consult with ORLA Legal.
Speak with an experienced Victorian lawyer — book online, or call us 24/7.
ORLA Legal works hand-in-glove with our sister services, so your loan, your conveyancing and your property search are coordinated by one team — all the way to settlement.