02Expert Video Answers

How Long Does Probate Take in Each Australian State and Can I Speed It Up?

Kevin Finn's profile pictureAnswered byKevin FinnHead of LegalAuthored & legally reviewed1 May 2026Watch · 0:59

A clean probate application is typically granted within 6 to 12 weeks, but it depends on your state and the court’s caseload. In this video, Kevin explains the biggest cause of delay: requisitions, the court’s queries about missing paperwork, affidavit material, or the deceased’s capacity to make a Will. As Kevin covers in the video above, avoiding requisitions is where professional preparation pays for itself. Weighing up handling it alone? Watch can I do probate myself in Australia first.

Read the video transcript

The time frame for when you file your application for a grant of probate can depend on what state you are located in and the relevant caseload that the court has at the time of filing. Sometimes the court may also raise requisitions, that is, a query about your application. These matters may include missing paperwork, missing information, a requirement to file further affidavit material, raising a question as to the deceased’s capacity to make a Will, which may require an affidavit as to the capacity of the deceased at the time of making their Will. Having professional assistance in preparing a probate application can identify these issues and ensure that all relevant evidence is put before the court, respond to requisitions which will extend the time frame for the grant being made.

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