How long does probate take in QLD | Timelines
When a loved one passes away, families often face a difficult mix of grief and responsibility. One of the first questions executors ask is, “How long does probate take in QLD?” The truth is, there isn’t a single answer.
An experienced estate administration lawyer can guide you through this process and provide clarity during a difficult time. The probate timeline in Queensland depends on many factors — from how quickly documents can be gathered to how busy the Supreme Court of Queensland is. Understanding these timeframes helps families plan ahead, avoid unnecessary delays, and ease the pressure of administering the estate of a deceased person.
What is probate, and why is it needed?
Probate in Queensland is the Supreme Court of Queensland’s formal recognition that a will is valid. The Court issues a grant of probate, which an executor will often need to collect the deceased’s bank accounts, manage real estate, pay debts, and administer the estate according to the will.
You’ll generally require probate if the estate includes:
Real estate solely in the deceased’s name.
Bank accounts or investments of significant value.
Superannuation or insurance to be paid into the estate.
Without probate, financial institutions and the Titles Registry may refuse to release funds or transfer property. Executors may need to apply for probate to get permission to manage the assets and begin the probate process.
To understand the whole process, see our detailed guide: What Really Happens During Probate.
Typical probate timeline in Queensland
While every case is different, most uncontested probate applications in Queensland follow a similar structure:
| Stage | Approximate Timeframe |
| Gathering documents (will, death certificate, asset details) | 2–4 weeks |
| Advertising your intention to apply (in the Queensland Law Reporter) and serving notice on the Public Trustee of Queensland | 14 clear days minimum |
| Preparing and filing your application | 1–2 weeks |
| Court processing and issue of the grant of probate | 8–12 weeks (if uncontested) |
| Administer the estate (collect assets, pay debts, distribute funds) | 6–12 months total, but depends on the complexity of the estate |
So, if all goes smoothly, probate itself may take around two to three months from application to grant, but full estate administration often takes up to 12 months before everything is finalised.
If you’re unsure which process applies to your situation, our article on Probate vs. Estate Administration: What’s the Difference? explains both in detail.
Why probate can take longer
Even well-prepared estates can face delays. Common issues include:
1. Incomplete or incorrect paperwork
Mistakes in the forms or missing documents (like the death certificate) can lead to court requisitions — formal requests to fix issues before the grant of probate is issued.
2. Locating the original will
If the will is missing or damaged, extra affidavits are required to prove its authenticity. Sometimes, grants of letters of administration are needed when no valid will exists.
3. Court workload and backlog
The Supreme Court of Queensland often experiences processing delays.
4. Disputes or family provision claims
If there is a dispute, including a family provision claim or a caveat, the probate process pauses until the dispute is resolved. These claims can extend the timeline by several months.
5. Complex estates
Estates involving multiple properties, overseas assets, or trusts often take longer to finalise due to valuations and third-party approvals.
How executors can help avoid delays
If you’re an executor wondering how long probate takes in QLD, the steps you take early on can make a big difference:
✅ Apply for the death certificate promptly through Births, Deaths and Marriages.
✅ Locate the original will (usually with the drafting solicitor or the deceased’s files).
✅ Prepare accurate affidavits and include all required attachments.
✅ Advertise the intent to apply in the Queensland Law Reporter early.
✅ Engage an experienced estate administration lawyer — they can prepare the documents correctly and follow up on your behalf with the Supreme Court of Queensland.
At Direct Lawyers, our team, led by professional lawyers Dion McCurdy and Liam Ellery, supports families through every step of the probate process. We help ensure your application is lodged correctly and efficiently so you can focus on what matters most.
For a step-by-step breakdown of executor responsibilities, see our Executor’s Checklist: Your Duties in Estate Administration.
What happens after probate is granted
Once the grant of probate is issued, the executor can begin to:
Collect and consolidate the deceased’s assets (bank accounts, property, shares).
Pay funeral expenses, debts, and taxes.
Administer the estate and distribute it to beneficiaries.
However, executors are generally advised to wait at least six months from the date of death before distributing assets. This waiting period allows time for any family provision claims to be made. Acting too soon can expose the executor to personal liability.
How the court’s new online system affects timing
Since late 2024, the Supreme Court of Queensland has implemented a new electronic filing and grant system. While it’s designed to streamline probate applications, there may be temporary processing delays as the system transitions.
Electronic grants are now emailed directly to the solicitor or firm representing the applicant — further reinforcing the value of professional assistance.
When to seek legal guidance
Probate may seem straightforward, but every estate has its complexities. Errors, missing documents, or unanticipated disputes can easily add months to the probate timeline in Queensland.
Working with a professional estate administration lawyer ensures compliance with Queensland law, timely filing, and fewer setbacks. Our experienced team can help you apply for a grant, manage estate paperwork, and resolve disputes efficiently.
Key takeaways
Probate typically takes 4–8 weeks once filed, but full estate administration may span 6–12 months.
The process involves advertising, notifying the Public Trustee, and applying through the Supreme Court of Queensland.
Early preparation, accurate paperwork, and legal support prevent delays.
Executors should be allowed six months after death before final distribution to avoid liability.
Outbound Link
For official details on forms, timeframes, and fees, visit theSupreme Court of Queensland – Probate Filing Information.
