The filing fee for Consent orders is $195. This is the fee the Family Court charges to have the orders reviewed and hopefully approved.
The cost of preparing a consent order can vary based on the complexity of the orders and the work required.
You may want to do it yourself, meaning that it will be of cost.
While the Family Court and Federal Circuit Court of Australia have set fees for applying for consent orders, legal firms may charge additional fees for their services.
For instance, a law firm may offer a standard consent order package for couples who have agreed on the division of assets, and they may provide a fixed fee quote after an initial meeting. Typically law firms will charge $4,000 – $10,000 to assist with consent orders.
The price varies based on the complexity of the orders, as well as the amount of negotiating required to finalise the orders.
Who Will Cover the Consent Order Cost
The cost of the consent order is typically borne by the party who engages the lawyer.
They can decide to share the costs equally, or one party might cover all the expenses.
It’s essential to discuss and agree upon this before proceeding.
How Can I Pay for the Consent Order Cost
Payment methods will depend on the legal firm or service you’re using.
Most firms accept various forms of payment, including bank transfers, credit cards or cash.
It’s best to consult directly with the firm or check their website for specific payment options.
What If I Cannot Pay for the Consent Order Cost
Some firms might offer payment plans or reduced fees if you’re facing financial difficulties.
Additionally, you might be eligible for a fee reduction or exemption from the Family Court based on certain criteria, such as holding a government health concession card or experiencing financial hardship.
What’s Included in Legal Fees for Consent Orders?
If you’re working with a family lawyer to draft and file your consent orders, you might be wondering what exactly is included in the legal fees, especially when the quote ranges from $4,000 to $10,000. Understanding what you’re paying for helps you see the value — and also helps you decide what level of support you actually need.
Typically, legal fees for consent orders include:
- Initial consultation – where your lawyer learns about your financial situation, parenting arrangements (if relevant), and your agreed terms.
- Drafting legal documents – including the consent orders and supporting application forms required by the Family Court.
- Advice on legal implications – your lawyer will explain whether your agreement is fair, enforceable, and compliant with relevant laws.
- Negotiation or minor revisions – if there are slight disagreements or clarifications needed, your lawyer may help refine the final draft.
- Filing with the court – your lawyer will lodge the documents on your behalf and correspond with the court if follow-up is needed.
In more complex cases — for example, if there are business assets, superannuation splits, or blended family arrangements — lawyers may also provide additional legal and financial guidance to ensure nothing is overlooked.
Some firms offer fixed-fee packages for straightforward consent orders, while others charge based on the time required. Always ask for a written fee agreement before proceeding.
Key Takeaway: Legal fees for consent orders cover much more than just paperwork — they ensure your agreement is valid, enforceable, and tailored to your specific situation.
Is a Consent Order Worth the Cost?
If you and your former partner already agree on how to divide your assets or care for your children, you might question whether it’s worth spending thousands of dollars to “make it official.” The short answer? In most cases, yes.
Here’s why a consent order is worth the investment:
- It’s legally binding – Once approved, a consent order carries the same weight as a court order made after a hearing. That means if either party breaches the terms, it can be enforced through the courts.
- It prevents future disputes – Even if things are amicable now, having everything documented and formalised provides clarity and protection down the line.
- It finalises financial ties – Without a consent order, one party could still make a claim on the other’s assets months or years later, even after a friendly separation.
- It can protect assets from future relationships – Having a consent order in place provides a legal record of what was agreed to and protects your future financial arrangements.
- It may save money long-term – While the upfront cost may seem high, it can prevent expensive litigation or conflict in the future.
So, while preparing a consent order does involve legal and court filing fees, the peace of mind and financial security it provides often far outweigh the cost.
Key Takeaway: A consent order is more than just paperwork — it protects you legally, provides certainty, and helps prevent costly disputes in the future.
Seek Legal Advice
Understanding the intricacies of consent orders and their associated costs is crucial for anyone navigating the family law system in Australia.
While the process might seem daunting, seeking legal advice can provide clarity and peace of mind.
Remember, while costs are a factor, the long-term benefits of a legally binding agreement can provide stability and security for all parties involved.
Director of Melbourne Family Lawyers, Hayder manages the practice and oversees the running of all of the files in the practice. Hayder has an astute eye for case strategy and running particularly complex matters in the family law system.
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