How to apply for probate in QLD
Updated 20 August 2026 · 8 minute read
Probate in Queensland is granted by the Supreme Court of Queensland, and filing runs through Paper filing with the Supreme Court registry (Brisbane or regional registries) — there is no e-filing for probate in Queensland. Here's the QLD application from start to finish — the same sequence a law firm follows, minus the mystery.
Before you start
- The original will — not a copy (check the solicitor's safe custody and the bank)
- The death certificate from Births, Deaths and Marriages (allow 2–4 weeks)
- Date-of-death balances in writing from every bank and registry
- A first look at whether you need probate at all
The QLD process, step by step
Advertise in the Queensland Law Reporter
The notice of intention to apply runs in the QLR; you must then wait 14 days before filing.
Serve the Public Trustee
A copy of the notice goes to the Public Trustee of Queensland at least 7 days before you file.
Prepare and file the paper application
Application, supporting affidavits, the original will and the death certificate are filed with the registry with the flat fee.
Receive the grant
The registry posts or releases the sealed grant. Allow four to eight weeks for a clean application.
What it costs to file
| Estate value | Filing fee |
|---|---|
| All estates (flat fee) | $847.60 |
Queensland charges one flat filing fee regardless of estate value. Advertising in the Queensland Law Reporter costs $161.70 including GST. Full cost picture, including solicitor fees: cost of probate in QLD.
Family provision claims in Queensland need written notice to the executor within 6 months of the death — distribute before nine months at your peril.
The documents, explained
Every form in the QLD application, and what the registry is checking in each: QLD probate forms.
Requisitions — registry queries that stall the application — mostly come from inventory errors and informally-executed wills. If the estate has property, interstate assets or any family tension, a fixed-fee firm is cheap insurance against restarting the clock.
Rather hand the QLD application to someone?
Fixed-fee quotes from firms that lodge these every week. Upfront prices, no obligation.
Get fixed-fee probate quotesCommon questions
Can I apply myself in QLD?
Yes — self-applications are accepted, and simple estates succeed regularly. Requisition rates run higher for self-filed applications, which adds weeks when it happens.
How long will it take?
Currently 4–8 weeks from filing for a clean application — the full picture, including notice periods, is in how long probate takes in QLD.
What if there is no will?
You apply for letters of administration in QLD instead — same registry, same fees, more affidavits.
Sources
- Queensland Courts — wills and probate (courts.qld.gov.au)
- Queensland Law Reporter — probate advertising
- QLD Supreme Court filing fees 2026–27 (astrislaw.com)
- ezyWill — QLD probate timeframes