Divorce
If you’re going through a separation or considering divorce, our experienced team of Family Law Lawyers in Wollongong is here to guide you through every stage of the process. At South Coast Family Law Group, we offer compassionate and practical family law services to help make this difficult time as smooth as possible.
If you’re ready to move forward with your divorce or need legal guidance on any Family Law matter, contact South Coast Family Law Group today 02 4202 6644.
Divorce is the legal termination of a marriage, enabling both parties to move forward independently. Under the Family Law Act 1975, a divorce can be granted when a marriage has irretrievably broken down with no reasonable prospect of reconciliation.
At South Coast Family Law Group, our divorce lawyers in Wollongong are committed to providing clear and comprehensive legal advice tailored to your specific situation. Whether you’re considering filing for divorce or responding to a divorce application, we can help you understand the legal requirements, timelines, and your rights.
To apply for a divorce in Australia, you must satisfy the following eligibility requirements:
Australia follows a “no-fault” divorce system, meaning the Court does not take into account the reasons behind the breakdown of the marriage, such as infidelity or family violence. The sole ground for divorce is that the marriage has broken down irretrievably, which must be shown by a minimum of 12 months’ separation.
At South Coast Family Law Group, we know that going through a divorce can be incredibly challenging. Our supportive and experienced Wollongong divorce lawyers are here to guide you with compassion, clear advice, and a professional approach every step of the way.
We offer fixed fees for preparing your Divorce Application or Response, including attending Court on your behalf if required.
Our team has extensive experience in divorce and Family Law, with a strong understanding of the legal processes and rights involved.
We provide customised legal guidance, taking into account the individual circumstances of your situation.
We focus on keeping the divorce process clear and manageable, reducing unnecessary stress wherever possible.
We approach every client with empathy, care, and respect throughout what can be a difficult and emotional time.
Our Family Law Specialists in Wollongong are here to support you with clear, personalised legal advice throughout your separation and divorce.
In Australia, divorce is based on the principle of “no-fault,” meaning you don’t need to prove any wrongdoing by your spouse. The only requirement is that you and your spouse have been separated for at least 12 months and there is no likelihood of reconciliation.
To file for divorce, you must submit a Divorce Application to the Federal Circuit and Family Court of Australia. You can apply individually or jointly with your spouse. The Application Form requires details about your marriage, separation, and any children. Our expert Family Lawyers can assist you with the process, ensuring all legal requirements are met.
The minimum time to finalise a divorce in Australia is usually around 3 to 4 months after the Divorce Application is lodged. This includes a mandatory 30-day waiting period after the Court hearing, if there are no complications. Factors such as contested issues or the need for additional documentation can sometimes extend this timeline.
Yes, you can still apply for divorce even if your spouse doesn’t agree. As long as you can prove that you have been separated for at least 12 months, a divorce can be granted by the Court, regardless of your spouse’s consent. However, if there are issues related to children or property, these matters may need to be resolved separately.
Property division is governed by the Family Law Act 1975. Either before or after a divorce, assets (such as the family home, superannuation, savings, and debts) are divided based on factors such as each party’s financial contributions, the length of the marriage, and any future needs. Our experienced Family Lawyers can help you through the process of filing an application for property settlement in Court, or help you reach a negotiated settlement with your ex-spouse.
While it is not mandatory to hire a lawyer for a divorce, it is highly recommended, especially if there are complex issues such as parenting matters (‘child custody’), property division, or financial support. A Family Lawyer can guide you through the legal process and protect your rights.
If you wish to change your name after a divorce, you can do so by applying to the relevant government agency, such as Births, Deaths and Marriages in your state or territory. You may need to provide a copy of your divorce decree or marriage certificate as part of the process.
In Australia, decisions about the care arrangements of children (‘child custody’) are made based on what is in the best interests of the children. The Court encourages both parents to share responsibility and maintain a positive relationship with the children, wherever possible. If you and your spouse cannot agree on arrangements, our Family Law experts can help negotiate a parenting plan or apply to the Court for parenting orders on your behalf.
Your privacy is paramount. All enquiries are confidential.
If you’d rather speak with us directly, give us a call or send us an email. We’re committed to providing the support and answers you need, on your terms.
12/200 Crown St, Wollongong NSW 2500
By Appointment
