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A divorce is the legal end of a marriage. It’s a separate process from sorting out parenting arrangements and dividing property, which are dealt with on their own. Many people are surprised to learn that a divorce doesn’t settle either of those things.
We take the time to explain how the process works, help you avoid common pitfalls (like missing the property time limit), and handle the application from start to finish.
Divorce applications are filed online through the Commonwealth Courts Portal, so you can work with us from Orange, Bathurst, Blayney, Molong, Cowra, Parkes or anywhere in the Central West.
Orange · by appointment only
Dubbo · by appointment only
Phone and video appointments available
To apply for a divorce in Australia, you must:
Australia has a no-fault divorce system. You don’t need to prove why the marriage ended, only that it has broken down irretrievably and there is no reasonable likelihood of getting back together.
You’ll need to attend counselling with a family counsellor and file a counselling certificate, or ask the Court for permission to apply without one.
You can divorce in Australia if you meet the requirements above. You’ll need your marriage certificate and, if it isn’t in English, a translation with an affidavit from the translator.
We confirm your separation date, any reconciliation and the arrangements for children under 18.
We prepare a joint or sole application and file it online with the Federal Circuit and Family Court.
For a sole application, your spouse must be served by post or by hand, by someone other than you. We arrange this for you.
Joint applicants, and sole applicants without children under 18, usually don’t need to attend. The divorce takes effect one month and one day after the order.
Clear advice. Real support. People in your corner.
Most family law matters in Orange are resolved without a judge. We focus on negotiation, mediation and agreement wherever possible, and if court is needed, you’ll have experienced advocates beside you.
Separation generally means living apart, but you can be separated while still living in the same house in Orange. Many couples do this for financial reasons or for the children.
If you were separated under one roof for part of the 12 months, the Court will need extra evidence, usually affidavits from you, your spouse or someone who knows your circumstances, showing the relationship had truly ended. We prepare this for you.
If only one of you decided to separate, it’s a good idea to keep a record of when you told your spouse.
The Court will only grant a divorce if it’s satisfied proper arrangements have been made for children of the marriage under 18. We often recommend agreeing on parenting arrangements first.
Once your divorce takes effect, you have 12 months to start property proceedings. We recommend finalising your property settlement before, or at the same time as, your divorce.
Under section 13 of the Succession Act 2006 (NSW), divorce revokes gifts to your former spouse and their appointment as executor, trustee or guardian in your Will, with some exceptions. It’s a good time to update your Will.
Divorce can affect some visa and citizenship applications. Get immigration advice before you apply.
The Court filing fee for a divorce application is $1,170, or $390 if you’re eligible for a reduced fee (for example, if you hold certain concession cards or are experiencing financial hardship). These fees apply from 1 July 2026.
Our legal fees depend on whether the application is joint or sole, whether you separated under one roof and whether service is straightforward. We offer fixed-fee divorce applications, so you know the cost upfront.
Special Counsel · Solicitor in Charge, Orange, Dubbo & Orana
Julie leads our family law work for clients in Orange and across the Central West. Admitted as a solicitor in New South Wales in 1998, she brings more than 25 years’ experience across all areas of family law, with particular skill in dispute resolution and arbitration.
Clients value Julie’s kind, considerate and compassionate approach. She’ll take the time to understand what matters most to you and your family.
Julie is supported by ALA Law’s family law Partners Amanda Little, Rosemary Aloisio and Bernadette Melhem, each an Accredited Specialist in Family Law.
You must be separated for at least 12 months before applying. Applications are filed online, so living in Orange doesn’t slow anything down. Once granted, the divorce takes effect one month and one day later.
Usually not. If you apply jointly, or there are no children under 18, you generally don’t need to attend. Hearings are often held electronically.
If your spouse can’t be located, we can apply to the Court for substituted service (for example, by email or social media) or to dispense with service.
No. A divorce only ends the marriage. Property and parenting arrangements are separate and need their own agreement or court orders.
Yes. Married couples have 12 months from the date the divorce takes effect to start property proceedings. After that, you need the Court’s permission.
Yes, if you’ve been separated for 12 months, even under one roof. You’ll need extra evidence, usually affidavits, to show the marriage had ended.
Book a confidential appointment. We’ll listen, explain your options and help you take the next step with confidence.