Getting a Divorce

= What is divorce? = A divorce is the legal ending of a marriage. A divorce does not include orders about property or children; these issues must be resolved separately.

= Separation = In order to be eligible to apply for a divorce you must show that your marriage has broken down, and that it will not be resumed. In order to prove this you must have been separated from your spouse for at least 12 months. (For further information, see ‘Separation’)

= Applying for a divorce = After you have been separated for 12 months, you are able lodge an application for divorce. (For further information, see ‘Application for Divorce’)

= Hearing = When you lodge your Divorce Application you will be assigned a hearing date and time. You may be required to attend this hearing. (For further information, see ‘Attending your Hearing’.)

= Finalisation of divorce = If the hearing is successful, the registrar will announce an order for divorce. Your divorce will become final one month and one day following this announcement. (For further information, see ‘Following Finalisation of Divorce’.)