Divorce order

In view of difficulties with the current divorce certificate being recognised by some foreign countries, the courts will be making changes to the form of document that is issued when a divorce order takes effect.

As from 13 February 2010, the current certificate of divorce will be replaced by a divorce order which records all the matters considered by the judicial officer in pronouncing the order. Pursuant to section 55A(1)(b) of the Family Law Act 1975 any children of the marriage will be named on the divorce order.

Once the divorce order takes effect, a divorce order will issue and will include a certification that the divorce has taken effect so that a separate divorce certificate will not be issued.

The new form of order will be issued for divorces pronounced after 13 February 2010. Replacements of divorce certificates after 13 February 2010 will be in the new divorce order form even if the divorce order was made prior to 13 February 2010.

Please call the Family Law Courts on 1300 352 000 for more information.