Are probate records public in Australia, and how do you search for them?
Yes. Once the Supreme Court issues a grant of probate, the Will and its associated documents become a matter of public record. Anyone can search the relevant state Supreme Court registry and obtain a copy, often online or in person, usually for a small fee. People do this to locate unclaimed assets, check whether they are a beneficiary, or confirm that a Will exists. If you are the executor applying for the grant, Willed’s fixed-fee probate service can handle the process for you.
For related guidance, see when is probate not required in Australia?.
Read the video transcript
Once the Supreme Court has issued a grant of probate, the Will and other associated documents become a matter of public record. Anyone can search the relevant state Supreme Court's registry and obtain a copy. Often, this can be done online or otherwise in person, usually for a small fee. People do this to locate unclaimed assets, ascertain if they are a beneficiary, or confirm the existence of a Will.
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